Australia have reached a fourth consecutive Rugby League World Cup final after a commanding 44-12 semi-final victory over Samoa, setting up a rematch against New Zealand at Suncorp Stadium next Sunday night.
The Kangaroos responded emphatically to the pressure surrounding their forwards after an uneven group stage, overpowering Samoa after facing the Siva Tau before kick-off.
Reece Walsh scored a hat-trick in his first major contribution on the international stage, while Tom Trbojevic, Bradman Best and Jack Bostock also crossed. Tom Dearden and Jacob Preston had earlier laid the foundations for Australia’s win.
Samoa took an early lead when Stephen Crichton converted a fourth-minute penalty, but Australia quickly seized control. Dearden broke through from a scrum move before Preston forced his way over from close range.
Trbojevic, Walsh and Best then added tries as the Kangaroos established a 26-2 advantage by half-time.
Australia set up World Cup final against New Zealand
Walsh, selected at full-back ahead of James Tedesco, endured an awkward moment shortly after the interval when he dropped a high kick. Crichton gathered the loose ball and scored for Samoa.
The 23-year-old recovered quickly, weaving through the Samoan defence and brushing aside Brian To’o to claim his second try. Izack Tago briefly gave Samoa hope when he powered over, but Australia remained in control.
Walsh completed his hat-trick by supporting a Cameron Munster break, then helped create the final try for winger Bostock.
Australia’s dominance was underlined by the efforts of Tino Fa’asuamaleaui and Pat Carrigan, who both ran for more than 150 metres. Carrigan had been moved to the bench, with Keaon Koloamatangi taking his place in the starting side.
Samoa’s challenge was undermined by nine errors and 12 set restarts or penalties. Spencer Leniu was also sin-binned for dissent late in a first half that had gone badly wrong for the Pacific nation.
“That’s been the story of the night for Samoa — just taking a little bit too far on discipline,” Trent Robinson said in commentary on Channel 7. “They had such an opportunity tonight and they’ve ruined it with ill-discipline.”
Australia will now face New Zealand in a repeat of the tournament’s opening match, which the Kangaroos won. Walsh acknowledged the scale of the challenge ahead.
“It’ll be a real tough one. We all saw the performance they put on last night (against Tonga),” Walsh said. “But a lot to work on throughout the week, especially for myself. Really looking forward to the challenge, there’s been a lot of chat about them so I’m looking forward to getting into training, working really hard and connecting with this group of boys.”
