Cook Islands Secure World Cup Spot with Commanding Win
The Cook Islands have earned their place in a fourth Rugby League World Cup after a dominant 58–6 victory over South Africa at CommBank Stadium. Led by Warriors standout Marata Niukore, the team displayed sharp skill and power throughout the match.
Match Highlights
South Africa, despite fielding a side without NRL players and only a handful of State Cup participants, started strongly. They led 6–4 early in the game, showing resilience before the Cook Islands shifted momentum decisively.
Prop Davvy Moale powered through three defenders to score and make it 10–6, marking the beginning of South Africa’s decline. Their hopes of qualifying for the first time since 2000 soon faded as Esan Marsters and Niukore each added tries before halftime.
Second-Half Breakaway
The Cook Islands dominated the second half completely. Five-eighth Cassius Cowley crossed twice, while Niukore completed his brace by running a precise line through the defense.
Brendan Piakura produced the standout moment of the match when he burst between two defenders at halfway, stepping past the fullback to score. Cronulla’s KL Iro later capped a 60-metre move set up by Rua Ngatikaura’s offload, with Cowley again finding open space to assist.
“With that, the Cook Islands were celebrating their fourth World Cup appearance.”
Author’s Summary
The Cook Islands crushed South Africa 58–6, sealing their fourth Rugby League World Cup spot with standout performances from Marata Niukore, Cassius Cowley, and Brendan Piakura.