Pacific Championships: Top Dogs Clash in Men’s and Women’s Competitions
The second week of the Pacific Championships is set to be an exciting one, with the top two teams in both the men’s and women’s competitions facing off against each other. The stage is set for a thrilling evening of rugby league in Christchurch, New Zealand.
Men’s Competition: New Zealand vs. Australia
Sunday, October 27th, 4:05pm (AEDT)
Apollo Projects Stadium, Christchurch
The Kiwis will be looking to take down the Kangaroos in what promises to be a fiercely contested match. With five players making their Test debuts for New Zealand, including Keano Kini, Will Warbrick, Phoenix Crossland, Naufahu Whyte, and Jordan Riki, the team will be eager to prove themselves. However, the Australians have a game up their sleeve, having already played together in the tournament.
The two sets of backrowers are expected to steal the show, with Kiwis Isaiah Papali’i, Scott Sorensen, and Joseph Tapine pitted against Angus Crichton, Cameron Murray, and Isaah Yeo. The halves combination of Mitchell Moses and Tom Dearden will need to step up their game if they want to lead their team to victory.
Tip: Australia by 10
Women’s Competition: New Zealand vs. Australia
Sunday, October 27th, 1:35pm (AEDT)
Apollo Projects Stadium, Christchurch
The Jillaroos are looking to continue their winning streak after a dominating performance against Papua New Guinea last week. Captain Ali Brigginshaw returns from a finger injury, pushing Tiana Penitani into the centres. The rest of the forward pack remains unchanged, with Olivia Higgins coming into the dummy-half role.
New Zealand, on the other hand, has a new halves combination, with Gayle Broughton making her debut outside halfback Tyla King. The team is filled with NRLW stars who will be fired up to represent their country at home. However, having already played together, the Australians are expected to have an advantage.
Tip: Australia by 18
Key Players to Watch
- James Fisher-Harris (New Zealand) – Will lead the Kiwis’ forward pack and ensure a fearsome battle.
- Ali Brigginshaw (Australia) – Returns from injury and will lead the Jillaroos’ attack.
- Tiana Penitani (Australia) – Moved to the centres and will be a key player in the Australian backline.
- Gayle Broughton (New Zealand) – Makes her debut as a Bronco and will partner Tyla King in the halves.
Odds
- New Zealand vs. Australia (Men’s): New Zealand $3.40 (+10.5 $1.85), Australia $1.32 (-10.5 $1.95)
- New Zealand vs. Australia (Women’s): New Zealand $3.10 (+7.5 $1.90), Australia $1.37 (-7.5 $1.90)
Get ready for an exciting day of rugby league action in Christchurch!
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