Samoa delivered an emphatic 76-0 victory over debutants Wales at the Women's Rugby League World Cup in Sydney, the second heavy defeat in succession for Wales at the tournament. Samoa's pace, power and quick passing overwhelmed the Welsh side, which was playing only its 14th international fixture. Debutant Tyra Ekepati scored a hat-trick, and Destiny Mino-Sinapati and Mercedez Taulelei-Siala both crossed twice, as Samoa set a new record score by surpassing their 52-8 win over Russia at the 2008 World Cup.
The contest was one-sided from the outset. Samoa made 21 line breaks to Wales' none and gained more than 2,000 metres. Early errors from Wales left Samoa camped on their try line, but Laikha Clarke crashed over to score Samoa's first World Cup try in nearly 18 years. From there the floodgates opened, and Samoa led 40-0 at half-time. Samoa captain Evana Isa'ako and Monica Tahoai added further tries after the restart, and Mino-Sinapati's stunning long-distance run was the most eye-catching score of the match.
Freedom Crichton Ropati, cousin of Stephen Crichton, scored her first World Cup try aged 18. Tavarna Papalii added a 14th try in the final minute, and Samoa's Piliae-Rasabale kicked 10 goals.
Wales, who lost their opening match to England, now face reigning champions Australia in Sydney on Sunday, 1 November. Samoa play England in Wollongong on Friday, 30 October.
Source: BBC Sport · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing