Kiwi Ferns edge Fiji 18-12 in Rugby League World Cup opener

The Kiwi Ferns narrowly defeated Fiji 18-12 in their Rugby League World Cup opener at McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle. Despite making their tournament debut, Fiji pushed the powerhouse New Zealand side to the limit, leading 12-4 at one stage during the first half.

Stacey Waaka scored two tries for New Zealand, including one in the third minute of the match. Fiji responded with tries from Losana Lutu and Sienna Laing, supported by a conversion from Serena Naitokatoka to take a halftime lead.

New Zealand fought back in the second half, with Waaka scoring her second try to close the gap. The match was decided in the final minutes when Leiana Tufuga scored a crucial try following a chip kick from Raecene McGregor, securing the win for the Kiwi Ferns with only two minutes remaining.