Kangaroos Hold Off Fiji Fightback in 36–22 Rugby League World Cup Win
Australia V Fiji produced a close battle as Australia survived a scare to claim a 36–22 win at Suncorp Stadium.
Tom Trbojevic scored three tries to help the Kangaroos pull clear after Fiji threatened an upset.
Fiji pushed Australia throughout Sunday’s clash in Brisbane, refusing to go away even when the Kangaroos looked to have gained control. The Bati took the lead early in the second half and put the tournament favorites under genuine pressure. Australia V Fiji showcased how timing and execution can turn the momentum in a high stakes match.
Australia struck first through Kotoni Staggs after captain James Tedesco helped create the opening, but Fiji responded with plenty of intent.
Semi Valemei finished a move set up by Kurt Donoghoe before Taane Milne added another try following a well placed grubber from Brandon Wakeham. Fiji’s willingness to attack and challenge Australia through the middle made for a much more competitive contest than the Kangaroos would have wanted.
Australia needed a response before the break, and Tedesco again played a key role. His involvement helped create an opportunity for debutant Sam Walker, who crossed to put the Kangaroos back in front. Walker’s conversion gave Australia a narrow 12–10 lead at half time.
It was a close contest, and Fiji had every reason to believe it could stay with Australia.
Trbojevic Makes the Difference
Fiji carried that momentum into the second half. Valemei scored his second try after another quality pass from Donoghoe, putting Fiji ahead 16–12 and leaving Australia with work to do.
Trbojevic provided the answer, crossing to bring the scores level as Australia looked to regain control. Walker added a penalty goal, and the Kangaroos gradually found more opportunities as the match opened up.
Trbojevic was central to that turnaround. His ability to find space and finish attacking movements gave Australia a crucial edge when the pressure was on, and he went on to complete his hat-trick.
Fiji continued to fight, with Valemei also completing three tries in an outstanding individual display. The winger’s efforts kept the Bati in the contest, but Australia eventually created enough separation to close out the match.
Jacob Preston’s late try helped put the result beyond doubt, with the Kangaroos finishing 14 points clear at 36–22.
Tedesco and Walker Provide Support
Trbojevic deservedly took much of the attention for his three tries, but Tedesco’s influence was also important. The Australian captain helped generate scoring opportunities and provided direction during periods when Fiji threatened to take control.
Walker contributed valuable points on debut, while Australia’s ability to find attacking options in the latter stages ultimately proved the difference.
For Fiji, Donoghoe’s creativity and Valemei’s finishing were major positives. The Bati showed they could trouble Australia’s defense and were far from overawed by the occasion.
What Comes Next?
The victory keeps Australia moving in the right direction as the tournament heads towards the knockout stages, although Fiji’s performance will give the Kangaroos plenty to review.
Australia’s next assignment is against the Cook Islands in Townsville, while Fiji faces New Zealand on the Gold Coast with its semi-final ambitions on the line.
The final score favored Australia, but the contest was a reminder that Fiji has the attacking ability to trouble the leading sides. For the Kangaroos, the challenge now is to turn a hard fought win into a more complete performance in the games that matter most.
Final score: Australia 36 defeated Fiji 22
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