Australia defeat New Zealand in thrilling World Cup opener

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 15 Oct, 12:58 · Archive

Australia defeated New Zealand 24-22 in the opening match of the Rugby League World Cup before more than 40,000 fans in Sydney, the largest Test match crowd in the city for 50 years. Debutant Jack Bostock marked his Australia debut with a hat-trick of tries. His third try came with five minutes remaining when he wrestled a Cameron Munster kick away from Jamayne Isaako in the air to put Australia in the match-winning lead. Bostock also scored an interception try and won two aerial battles to claim high kicks.

New Zealand's Kalyn Ponga scored twice and appeared to be the standout player for much of the match. He overcame a painful arm injury to score his tries, including one in which he stepped around Reece Walsh. However, Ponga left the field injured late in the game with his left arm in a sling at full time. Casey McLean also scored for New Zealand, whilst Reece Walsh scored a try for Australia alongside Darcy Trbojevic.

How it is being reported

• Australia edge New Zealand in epic World Cup openerJack Bostock scores a hat-trick of tries as Australia fight back to win the opening game of the Rugby League World Cup against New Zealand.BBC News · 15 Oct, 12:32
• Australia survive a scare as New Zealand light fuse on Rugby League World CupPool A: Kangaroos 24-22 Kiwis Jack Bostock scores three tries including match-winner in Sydney Debutant Jack Bostock almost single-handedly stole the Rugby League World Cup opener, with three tries and one crucial try assist in a 24-22 victory over New Zealand that might generously be described as undeserved. The Dolphins player wrestled a Cameron Munster kick away from Jamayne Isaako in the air with five minutes to go to complete his treble , putting his side in the match-winning lead. It was a carbon copy of his second try, as he proved damaging under the high ball. But it was his first…Guardian Sport · 15 Oct, 12:22

In this story: Jack Bostock · Australia · New Zealand · Kalyn Ponga · Reece Walsh · Sydney

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