Samoa draw on 2022 final defeat before Australia semi-final
Captain Junior Paulo says the loss still hurts as Samoa prepare to face the Kangaroos at Allianz Stadium after a 20-18 defeat by Tonga.
Samoa captain Junior Paulo says the disappointment of the 2022 Rugby League World Cup final remains a source of motivation as his side prepares for a semi-final against Australia at Allianz Stadium.
The Kangaroos won that decider 30-10. Paulo said the result still hurt, but declined to describe revenge as Samoa’s main motivation. With only a few players remaining from the 2022 squad, he said the current group wanted to move forward and make its own history.
Samoa enter the match following a 20-18 loss to Tonga. Paulo said the emotional pressure surrounding that contest had taken a toll, and the players had used a change of surroundings and a couple of days off in Coogee to reset.
Australia, the three-time defending champions, have faced criticism after late wins against New Zealand and Fiji. Samoan prop Francis Molo said his team should not be distracted by that scrutiny and needed to concentrate on its own preparation and confidence.
Molo said Samoa had gained confidence despite losing to Tonga and were continuing to develop their combinations. Tonga will meet New Zealand in the other semi-final in Newcastle.
