Mate Ma’a Tonga 32 – 18 Toa Samoa [1]
Saturday, November 4, 2017 - 21:53. Updated on Monday, November 20, 2017 - 21:55.
Mate Ma’a Tonga have defeated Toa Samoa 32 – 18, scoring five tries to three in tonight's Rugby League World Cup pool match in Hamilton, New Zealand.
The game was levelled 6 – 6 for most of the first-half. The first try was scored by Michael Jennings. The Toa Samoa quickly retaliated with a try in the 16th minute. Siosiua Taukei’aho converted a penalty goal in 27th minute, putting Tonga ahead 8 – 6. Michael Jennings scored Tonga’s second try a minute later, giving Tonga a comfortable lead of 14-6 at halftime.
In the second-half, Tonga scored two more tries by Peni Terepo and Ben Murdoch-Masila. Toa Samoa refused to give up, scoring two tries to close the gap to 26 – 12. However, Mate Ma’a Tonga would not be denied, scoring their 6th and final try in the 77th minute.
Tongan Try Scorers: Michael Jennings (2), Peni Terepo, Ben Murdoch-Masila and Manu Ma’u.
All tries and one penalty converted by Samisoni Taukei’aho.