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.