Speed kills as New Zealand fall flat in World Cup final fizzer
The World Cup final seemed to have all the makings of a classic but New Zealand missed the memo and they failed to fire at Lang Park in Brisbane.
Jack Bostock netted two tries, including the decisive one in the final minutes, as Australia dominated New Zealand 32-12 in Sunday's Rugby League World Cup final, securing their fourth consecutive championship. The Kangaroos, led by coach Kevin Walters, opened the tournament with a thrilling comeback victory over New Zealand and then claimed an emphatic semifinal win against Samoa.
New Zealand, seeking to avenge their loss to Australia in the 2022 final, defeated Tonga 34-10 to reach the championship match. The Kangaroos took an early lead with tries from Liam Martin and Cameron Munster, before New Zealand equalized through a try by Kodi Nikorima. Bostock's try in the 77th minute sealed the win, earning him the player-of-the-match award. Australia's Jillaroos also claimed the women's title with a 34-10 victory over New Zealand.
Written by urgent.news from Winnipeg Free Press's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
This story
This is one outlet's version. Read the fullest account.
