Australia Edges New Zealand in Thrilling Rugby League World Cup Opener
Jack Bostock scores a hat-trick as the favored Kangaroos fight back from behind to secure a dramatic victory in front of a massive crowd.
Australia began their Rugby League World Cup campaign with a nail-biting 24-22 victory over New Zealand, underscoring their status as tournament favorites. The match, played before more than 40,000 fans at Sydney's stadium, marked the largest attendance for an international rugby league test in the city in 50 years.
New Zealand controlled much of the game, with Casey McLean's early try setting the tone. They held the lead for significant portions of the match, with Kalyn Ponga contributing two tries. However, Australia mounted a late surge, securing the win in the final five minutes through Jack Bostock's third try.
Bostock's debut was a highlight, featuring an interception try and two scores from contested aerial battles. The fullback matchup between New Zealand's Ponga and Australia's Reece Walsh was another focal point. While Ponga scored twice and appeared to have the upper hand for periods, Walsh ultimately delivered a decisive long-range try.
Ponga left the field late in the game with what appeared to be a broken arm, casting doubt on his availability for the remainder of the tournament. The formidable performance of New Zealand's forward pack had largely dictated the game's rhythm, leading Australia to adopt a more defensive posture than seen in their recent Ashes triumph.
Despite being outplayed for large stretches and trailing at various points, including 6-0, 16-10, and 22-16, Australia demonstrated resilience. Two key turnovers by New Zealand, which led to tries from Bostock and Trbojevic, allowed Australia to level the score at 10-10 by halftime. The defending champions ultimately found a way to secure the opening win, but will anticipate a significant challenge from New Zealand again on November 15 if they are to claim their 13th World Cup title.