Cook Islands Women have been crowned the 2025 Pacific Bowl Champions after a stunning 42–24 victory over Tonga XIII in a thrilling final that had fans on their feet from start to finish.
The Cook Islands, affectionately known as the “Cookies,” displayed pure determination and attacking flair to secure the championship title scoring eight tries to Tonga’s five.
Despite Tonga’s early dominance, the Cook Islands’ relentless pace and structure saw them pull away in the second half.
Tonga opened the scoreboard early with back-to-back tries through Emmanita Paki (6’) and Simina Lokotui (9’), both coming off quick plays and sharp kicks from their halves.
But the Cook Islands quickly hit back, finding rhythm through Deleni Paitai (19’) and Jazmon Tupou-Witchman (29’) before Paulina Morris-Ponga (34’) and Ngatokotoru Arakua (35’) added two more before halftime.
With Chantay Kiria-Ratu nailing three conversions, the Cookies went into the break leading 16–10.
The second half began just as fiercely, with a powerful charge from Kerehitina Matua (49’) extending the lead.
Tonga responded through Seli Mailangi (39’) and Moana Courtenay (42’), closing the gap to within two points, but the Cook Islands remained composed.
Errors from Tonga near their own try line proved costly, and the Cookies capitalized—Matua crossed again in the 63rd minute before Kiarah Siauane (69’) sealed the deal with her second try.
Kiria-Ratu was instrumental with the boot, slotting five conversions from eight attempts, while Tonga’s Emmanita Paki managed two from five.
The final whistle confirmed Cook Islands Women as 2024 Pacific Bowl Champions, completing their redemption story after thrashing the Orchids last week. The victory showcased not just their skill but also their resilience and teamwork under pressure.
Cook Islands head coach praised the squad’s commitment and energy, while fans celebrated what many are calling one of the most entertaining matches of the women’s rugby league season.
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