Abbi Church scored four tries as Australia edged past Fiji 30-14 to reach their fifth consecutive Women’s Rugby League World Cup final. The Jillaroos, chasing a fourth straight title, faced an unexpected challenge from tournament debutants Fiji, who led for 40 minutes before Australia pulled away.
Fiji took an early lead at the Sydney Football Stadium, becoming the first side since New Zealand’s 2013 World Cup final to score first against Australia in this tournament. After 12 minutes, Fiji opted to kick a penalty for two points. Then captain Sereana Naitokatoka intercepted a pass from Jaime Chapman near the Australia line, setting up half-back Luisa Yaranamua to score. Yaranamua’s conversion extended Fiji’s lead to 8-0.
Australia struggled to find their rhythm as errors crept in. The pressure from Fiji’s defence unsettled the Jillaroos until two late first-half tries brought the score level. Church crossed in the right corner, and Tamika Upton followed with a break to score after a Fiji drop-out. Jocelyn Kelleher missed both conversions, leaving the teams tied at 8-8 at halftime.
After the break, Australia responded strongly. Church completed her hat-trick with a catch from a Tarryn Aiken kick to the corner, scoring at full speed. Jaime Chapman also scored as Australia established control. Fiji remained competitive, with Maria Paseka scoring a late try, but Australia’s experience prevailed.
Church sealed the win with a long-range try, collecting a kick from Losana Lutu around 30 metres from her own line before racing clear. Kelleher converted three goals in total to help Australia reach the final against New Zealand next Sunday in Brisbane, kickoff at 05:10 GMT.
Fiji’s performance was a highlight of the match, giving the tournament favourites their toughest test yet. Despite the loss, the debutants showed their potential by leading for most of the game and scoring twice. Australia’s coach Jess Skinner’s halftime talk appeared to refocus the team, as they dominated the second half following a shaky start.
Church now has seven tries in four World Cup matches, underlining her importance to the Jillaroos’ attack. Australia will face New Zealand, who beat Fiji in the group stage 18-12, for the title in what promises to be a tight final.
According to Yahoo Sports.
