Australia Rallies from Early Fiji Surge to Reach World Cup Final

Fiji, making their tournament debut, applied intense pressure on Australia from the opening whistle. The Australian side soon succumbed to unforced errors and handling mistakes, and after 12 minutes Simaima Taufa conceded a penalty directly in front of the posts.

Fiji opted to take the two points. Four minutes later, they crossed for a try. Captain Sereana Naitokatoka intercepted a pass from Jaime Chapman just 10 metres from the Australia line, and Fiji drove through the defence before half-back Luisa Yaranamua touched down. Yaranamua also converted, handing Fiji a remarkable 8-0 lead.

Australia eventually responded, scoring two tries in the final ten minutes of the first half to level the match.

Church crossed in the right corner, and Tamika Upton sliced through the defence as Australia built pressure following a Fiji drop-out. However, Jocelyn Kelleher missed two conversion attempts, leaving the teams level at halftime. Australia narrowly avoided falling behind when Upton brilliantly tipped a Fiji grubber kick behind the try-line.

Whatever Jess Skinner said at halftime sparked a revival, and Australia seized control of the game.

Church completed her hat-trick—her third try a brilliant catch from a booming Tarryn Aiken kick into the corner, grounded at full speed—either side of Jaime Chapman diving over.

Australia resumed dominance, though the Jillaroos had shown they were beatable. A late try from Maria Paseka provided a deserved closing flourish for a fearless Fiji side.

“I’m so happy,” Naitokatoka said afterward. “What a game. It was so exciting. We just had fun, not thinking too much. Just run hard, play hard—that was our goal. Everyone came away happy knowing they gave their best for the full 70 minutes.”

Church ultimately had the final word for Australia, gathering Losana Lutu’s kick roughly 30 metres from her own line before sprinting away to score.

“I have so much respect for Abbi,” said Kelly. “She’s incredible all year round. Everyone thinks she’s a full-back, but she could play anywhere and dominate any role. Abbi is the ultimate teammate. She’s quiet, but she puts in the work to perform at her best. As a teammate, I’ve been so proud of her over the past two years.”

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