New Zealand defeat Samoa, grand final, Stacey Waaka, news, videos, highlights

New Zealand is the first team through to the women’s Rugby League World Cup final after Stacey Waaka scored a hat-trick and set up a try to guide them to a comfortable 32-0 victory over Samoa.

The Kiwi Ferns were never challenged and now have a week to prepare for a likely showdown with the Jillaroos who thrashed them in the final four years ago.

Some lightning in the second half was the only shock on Saturday as New Zealand raced in seven tries in front of a heaving crowd in Newcastle.

Watch every ball of Australia vs England T20 & ODI series Live & ad-break free during play on Fox Cricket, available on Kayo Sports | Don’t miss the Summer of the Century. Get 50% off Kayo Premium for 4 months. Min cost $23 for 1 month. New & returning customers only. Offer ends 30 Nov 2026. Sign up today.

Waaka set up the opening try of the contest in the second minute and then pounced on a kick that was allowed to bounce to give her side some breathing room at the break.

The former sevens star then finished off a razzle dazzle play that saw Raecene McGregor put in a perfect kick in blustery conditions to make it 12-0.

By the time Mele Hufanga charged over the game was well and truly over, with the Kiwi Ferns now waiting to see who wins Sunday’s second semi-final.

Australia should romp to victory over Fiji which would set up a blockbuster trans-Tasman final next week.

Samoa didn’t help themselves with 15 errors on Saturday, but they’ve been one of the best stories of the World Cup and will only improve as their players continue to build experience in the NRLW.

MORE NRL NEWS

FREE AGENCY LIVE: Classy Cleary act as shock contract clauses revealed

WC TALKING POINTS: Theory on Latrell snub; ‘nuts’ scenes to spark NRL’s US move

‘SIT DOWN WITH HIM’: Best’s first move as ‘nervous’ Knights star faces huge call

Get all the latest NRL news, highlights and analysis delivered straight to your inbox with Fox Sports Sportmail. Sign up now!!!