New Zealand’s Pacific Championships campaign came to an end in a shock 25-24 defeat to Tonga in thrilling scenes on Saturday night.
The historic victory marks the first time Tonga will compete in a major tournament final, with the team set to face off against the defending champions, Australia.
Tonga began the match in dominant fashion, bursting out to a 24-0 lead within 34 minutes in Auckland.
A remarkable comeback feat in the final 40 saw scores tied with five minutes remaining, with the potential result of a draw assuring the Kiwis a place against Australia in the final.
New Zealand was handed late opportunities including a penalty shot and several field goal attempts but could not find a way to push ahead.
The game was not any easier for the Tongans, who were battling with the knowledge they had failed to cross the line in the final 40 while under pressure to find a way ahead.
But their golden opportunity came with four minutes to go as halfback Isaiya Katoa nailed a bullet through the two posts and sealed the victory.
“This means the world to us,” Addin Fonua-Blake said post-match.
“It is unforgettable. The Tonga fans are the best in the world and I’m just happy we gave them something to cheer about tonight.
“We wanted to come out here and match our fire with their fire.
“New Zealand are a world-class team … They gave us a run for our money. They can hold their heads up high tonight, it was a good game.”
Earlier, the Kiwis had yet to be given an opportunity to touch the ball when Sione Katoa found the line in the fourth minute.
Fonua-Blake was the next over, as he channelled the traits of a halfback to step and storm through a gap to increase his side’s lead.
“They are making it look real hard at the moment,” Phil Gould said of the Kiwis’ performance on Nine.
“There is no fluency to their game at all.”
“Physically, Tonga is monstering the Kiwis,” said Andrew Johns.
Tonga was well and truly in control as Siliva Havili and Soni Luke added an extra 12 points.
But the game took a turn in favour of New Zealand when Tonga’s Sitili Tupouniua made an error in the ruck and handed over possession inside his side’s half.
The error presented the first opportunity for the Kiwis, who set Isaiah Papali’i up to burrow over the line ahead of half-time.
Keano Kini and Phoenix Crossland returned in style as they crossed for the opening two tries of the second half.
Joseph Tapine followed with his own flare as he collected his own kick to dart down the sideline and level the scores.
