Despite being scoreless throughout the game, the PNG Orchids put up a good fight on home soil after going down 36-0 to the Kiwi Ferns this afternoon in the third week of the Pacific Championship at the Santos National Football Stadium.
In an intense first half, the Kiwi Ferns secured four tries each in both halfs with debutant Mackenzie Wiki scoring a hat-trick in the second half.
The game, played under fine weather and good ground conditions, has seen the Kiwi Ferns dominate the scoreboard with three tries and two successful conversions.
The Kiwi Ferns wasted no time in taking control of the match, with Leianne Tufuga crossing the line twice in an impressive form, scoring in the 1st and 23rd minute, Angelina Teakaraanga-Katoa added to the Kiwi Ferns’ tally with a try in the 26th minute, further solidifying their lead.
Tyla King was successful in converting two of these tries, adding four more points to their score line.
Despite the Orchids’ efforts into the second half, the ladies struggled to break through the Kiwi Ferns’ defensive line and remained scoreless.
Kiwi Ferns Ashleigh Quinlan got away on the sideline with an outstanding touch down followed by debutant Mackenzie Wiki scoring a hat-trick for her side.
Meanwhile, Orchids coach Tahnee Norris said, despite the loss, the girls performed well and put up a good defense.