Jillaroos Open World Cup Defense With 40-0 Win Over Samoa

Australia began its pursuit of a fourth straight Women's Rugby League World Cup title on Friday night by beating Fetu Samoa 40-0 at CommBank Stadium in Western Sydney. The Jillaroos scored seven tries and led 28-0 at halftime. Jocelyn Kelleher, playing five-eighth on her Test debut, was named player of the match after kicking six conversions.

Samoa had the better of the opening minutes and turned down two shots at goal in kicking range to chase a try, but the pressure produced nothing. Jaime Chapman opened the scoring for Australia in the 11th minute, and Julia Robinson followed seven minutes later for her 23rd try in her 14th Test, extending her record as the Jillaroos' leading try-scorer. Shaylee Bent, Keeley Nizza and Olivia Kernick crossed before the break. Keilee Joseph scored early in the second half and Jessica Sergis added the last try in the 68th minute. Samoa's best chance came on the hour, when prop Laikha Clarke lost the ball over the line, and the shutout held.