Australia Shatters Rugby League World Cup Scoring Record Against Wales

Australia delivered a record-shattering performance in the Rugby League World Cup, defeating Wales 124-6 in a dominant display that saw them score the most points in international rugby league history. The defending champions ran in 21 tries during the match in Sydney, surpassing previous scoring records for both men's and women's international fixtures.

The half-time score alone, 60-0, marked the largest lead of any World Cup match to date. The Jillaroos, aiming for their fourth consecutive title, continued their onslaught in the second half, with wing Jaime Chapman scoring her sixth try in the final minute to secure the monumental victory. This final score of 124 points eclipsed the previous men's international record of 122-8 set by Denmark against Sweden in 2012. The 118-point margin of victory also stands as the largest in a women's international match.

Despite the overwhelming scoreline, Wales experienced a moment of celebration when Paige Travis scored against the Jillaroos, becoming the first team to cross the try line against them in the tournament. This try came after Wales had conceded 100 points.

Australia's offensive surge began early in the match, with lock Olivia Kernick scoring the opening try in the sixth minute. The Jillaroos' attack quickly found its rhythm, with Chapman and fellow winger Abbi Church exploiting defensive weaknesses. Despite strong defensive efforts from Wales, exemplified by a significant tackle from Jade Mullen, Australia's consistency and ruthlessness on attack proved too much.

Statistics from the first half highlighted Australia's dominance, with the team possessing 84% of the ball and completing 21 of 22 sets, while Wales had possession for just over two minutes. Tries continued to come from players including centre Jessica Sergis, second rower Kezie Apps, and Chapman, who completed a first-half hat-trick.

After the break, Keilee Joseph quickly extended Australia's lead, followed by more tries from Sergis, Chapman, Joseph, and Church. The Jillaroos surpassed their previous record of 92-0 against France in 2022 when Southwell converted Sergis's fourth try. Tamika Upton's breakaway try then pushed Australia past the 100-point mark.

Wales captain Bethan Dainton expressed pride in her team's effort, stating, "The scorelines haven't been in our favour but no one gave up and I am so proud of the girls." She added that the team aimed to "create a legacy back home for young girls coming through."