York, England – Samoa celebrated its first Rugby World Cup points in 11 years with a penalty kick by Harmony Vatau during their 92-3 defeat against England on Saturday. The moment sparked jubilant scenes from the Samoan team and a crowd of up to 15,000 at the York Community Stadium.
Samoa last competed in the Rugby World Cup in 2017 and 2021 (played in 2022 due to Covid), and this tournament marks a critically important milestone for the program. coach Ramsey Tomokino emphasized the emotional weight of the occasion, stating, “our girls have worked really hard to be here…we’ve never had the chance to play in front of 14,000 like we did tonight, and our girls deserve it.”
The penalty,scored in the 42nd minute from 32 meters out,came as a surprise to the coaching staff,who had prepared for a tap-and-go play. Captain Sui Pauarasia rather turned to fly half Vatau and asked, ”You got this?” According to Pauarasia, Vatau, ”a pretty shy player,” simply nodded before successfully converting the kick.
“Just to see the jubilation on the face of Harmony and the girls was heartwarming,” Tomokino said.
Despite the scoreline, Tomokino expressed optimism about the future of Samoan rugby, saying, “I think what’s good for the game is that we’re here and we’re getting better.” He also voiced a desire for increased opportunities and a more level playing field for women’s rugby, stating, “I long for the day where the competition for the women is like it is for the men.”
Following the match, players from both teams shared a moment of sportsmanship, hugging and dancing on the pitch.
Scoreboard:
England 92 (Jess Breach 3, Megan Jones 2, Sarah Bern, Maddie Feaunati, Lark Atkin-Davies, Lucy Packer, Kelsey Clifford, Mackenzie Carson, Helena Rowland, Marlie Packer, Claudia Moloney-MacDonald tries; Rowland 11 conversions)
Samoa 3 (Harmony Vatau penalty)
Halftime: 47-0
The New Zealand Black Ferns continue their tournament campaign tomorrow against Japan, following a 54-8 victory over Spain in their opening match.
