New Zealand ended Tonga’s dream run at the Rugby League World Cup in Newcastle, beating the islanders 28-10 in their semifinal clash.
The win means the Kiwis make their first final since 2013.
While New Zealand struggled in the first half to contain their fiery opponents, the second half saw a dominant by James Fisher-Harris’ men, where they completely shut Tonga out.
In the end the Kiwis scored six tries, one each by Briton Nikora, Dane Gagai, Casey McLean, Jahrome Hughes, Xavier Wilson and Charnse Nicoll-Kickstad.
Top goal-kicker Jamayne Isaako converted five of the tries.
New Zealand led 12-10 at halftime and scored four unanswered tries in the second 40 to claim victory and secure their final spot.
Man of the match Kalyn Ponga, who fought off an injured arm suffered in the opening clash against Australia, said it was a different game and praised his teammates.
“Tonight was different,” he said post-match.
“It was a big game obviously and it was a good feeling representing your people, your country, especially in front of the red sea and I was looking forward to it.
“The first half was obviously tough and obviously the wind helped us in the second half.”
Tongan playmaker Isaiya Katoa thanked the fans, and apologized they had not done the job, while also praising the Kiwis for the win.
“No excuses, you gotta take your hats off to the Kiwi boys,” he said.
“The way they played that footy is the way you play in this tough conditions.
“The way they really around us doesn’t matter the result, we can’t thank you enough,” he told fans.
The pre-game challenges set the stage for the on-the-field battle.
Former Kiwi captain Dallin Watene-Zelezniak, led the Tongan sipitau, having changed allegiance for the world meet.
The Kiwis response of their haka led by captain Fisher-Harris.
Tonga did not move an inch as they stared down the Kiwis at halfway following the haka.
The Kiwis started with a bang, Nikora going over in the fourth minute, after livewire fullback Kalyn Ponga stood the defence up and put Nikora
But Tonga returned the favour, twice in a row through winger Jojo Fifita, who scored a double, the first in the 21st minute, who ran through the Kiwis defence from close to his own tryline.
However, New Zealand got five more tries after that and left Tonga regretting their lost opportunities.
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RNZ / LIAM K. SWIGGS
