BRISBANE (The Thursday Times) — Australia beat New Zealand 32-12 on Sunday to win the Men’s Rugby League World Cup for a fourth consecutive time, extending their World Cup winning run to 23 matches.
The Kangaroos led 24-6 at half-time in front of a sell-out crowd of 52,500 and were never seriously threatened. Liam Martin scored after 84 seconds, and Jack Bostock, Bradman Best, and Martin again crossed before the break. Tom Trbojevic added a try early in the second half, Bostock scored his second late on, and Cameron Munster kicked four goals.
New Zealand undone by errors
Casey McLean, the youngest player on the pitch, scored a converted try that briefly levelled the scores, but New Zealand repeatedly gave away possession and field position. An error by Jamayne Isaako from the kick-off led to Australia’s opening try. Isaiah Papali’i scored a consolation try for the Kiwis in the second half.
Walsh and Trbojevic combine
Fullback Reece Walsh set up Trbojevic’s try with quick footwork and an offload. Soon afterwards, New Zealand’s Kalyn Ponga, who was named Golden Boot winner on Thursday, threw a wayward pass into touch when well placed.
The Kiwis, coached by Stacey Jones, had pushed Australia hard in the tournament opener on 15 October, which Australia, under Kevin Walters, won 24-22. Australia have not lost a World Cup match since New Zealand beat them in the 2008 final.
Earlier on Sunday, the Jillaroos beat the Kiwi Ferns 34-10 in Brisbane to win the women’s World Cup for a fourth successive time, with Jaime Chapman scoring a hat-trick.
