Sport · Singapore Bureau
Australia crushes Samoa to reach Rugby League World Cup final
The defending champions dominated Samoa 44-12 on Sunday to secure a spot in the Rugby League World Cup final against New Zealand. Reece Walsh starred for Australia with a hat-trick in the lopsided semifinal clash.
LSN Singapore ·

Australia's rugby league team delivered a commanding performance to advance to the World Cup final for the 13th time, routing Samoa 44-12 in Sunday's semifinal in Sydney. The reigning champions proved too strong for their Pacific Island opponents in cool conditions, with fullback Reece Walsh crossing for three tries to spearhead the attacking display. Walsh's hat-trick underscored Australia's dominance in a one-sided contest that never hung in doubt after the opening exchanges. The comprehensive victory sets up a final meeting with New Zealand, the other major powerhouse in the tournament. Australia will aim to add another World Cup title to their trophy cabinet when they face the Kiwis in the decider, seeking to maintain their status as one of rugby league's elite nations.