Star-studded Samoa down Kumuls

A dominate second half performance by Toa Samoa was just enough to get them a win over the PNG Kumuls this afternoon at the Santos National Football Stadium.

The Kumuls delivered a brave effort in the first half to trail 14-6, but the Samoans came out strong in the second with more field possession which eventually led to a big 64-6 win.

Despite the big win, Samoa Coach Ben Gardiner commended the Kumuls for giving them a good challenge in the first half.

“I thought the Kumuls were tremendous in the first half, it was an end-to-end game, very physical and I really want to congratulate Papua New Guinea on their performance, particularly in the first half,” Gardiner said.

Apart from the on field performance, Samoa captain Junior Paulo said they are so humbled by the reception and hospitality shown by passionate PNG fans.

“For us, we’ve been able to go out there and share rugby league with a nation that calls rugby league its national sport and we are humbled to share the experience with everyone,” Paulo said.

Meanwhile despite the loss, PNG Kumuls Coach Jason Demetriou commended the efforts delivered by his boys against a star-studded Samoan outfit.

The Samoans remain unbeaten will face Tonga in their next match while the Kumuls will travel to Sydney to face England.

Earlier, the PNG Orchids also went down to the Fiji Bulikulas 40-4.