Australia’s Prime Minister’s XIII proved too strong for Papua New Guinea, securing a 28–10 victory in a spirited rugby league showdown at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby on Sunday 12th October.

The match highlighted PNG’s trademark passion and physicality, but Australia’s structure and composure under captain Keaon Koloamatangi made the difference in key moments.

Australia started fast, with Trey Fuller scoring two first-half tries, supported by Tallis Duncan and Bradman Best.

Fuller later added another in the second half, finishing with a hat-trick, while Tyran Wishart capped off the scoring to seal the 28–10 win.

PNG hit back through Dudley Dotoi and Epel Kapinias, but struggled to maintain an attacking rhythm — particularly through the halves, where they lacked direction and execution in critical sets close to the line.

Australian coach Kevin Walters said his side’s defensive commitment set the tone for the victory.

“Their attitude was really good, and that showed on the field today. I thought we defended our try line really well, which was something we focused on,” Walters said.

Captain Keaon Koloamatangi, leading the team for the first time, called the experience humbling.

“It’s always been a dream to wear this jersey. To play here in PNG, in front of such passionate fans, was something special,” he said.

Koloamatangi also praised PNG’s intensity and said the country’s planned PNG Chiefs NRL entry in 2028 would “bring amazing energy and value to the competition.”

PNG Prime Minister’s XIII coach Jason Demetriou praised his team’s physicality but admitted the side struggled to convert pressure into points.

“We went after the contest physically, but probably just lacked a bit of experience in the halves during key moments,” Demetriou said. “When we had field position, especially before and after halftime, we couldn’t quite finish our sets.”

Captain Nene Macdonald echoed his coach’s assessment, saying the experience was valuable for PNG’s young players.

“A lot of our boys had their first big hit-out today, and they didn’t look out of place. We just need to control the tempo better next time,” Macdonald said.

The sell-out Port Moresby crowd once again showcased why rugby league is PNG’s national passion. From the first whistle to the last, the noise inside Santos Stadium reflected the country’s deep connection to the sport.

Australia’s win continues their dominance in the annual fixture, but PNG’s heart and defensive grit continue to earn admiration from both fans and opponents alike.

Both nations now turn attention to their next campaigns with Australia preparing for the Ashes Tour of England, and PNG building toward the Pacific Championships and the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

As the countdown to the PNG Chiefs’ 2028 NRL debut continues, Sunday’s match served as a powerful reminder that the passion for rugby league in the Pacific is only growing stronger.