SAMOA defeated Papua New Guinea 56-45 in a high scoring encounter during the opening round of the Oceania Rugby Women’s Championship at Churchill Park in Lautoka this afternoon.
A low turn out was recorded with about 50 spectators watching the fixture.
It was a close battle in the first half with Samoa leading 29-26 at the break.
Known as Manusina, the Samoans outscored the PNG side ten tries to seven.
Samoa 56 (Tries: Mary-Lee Sau 2, Masuisui Pauaraisa 2, Nina Foaese 2, Marilyn Live 1, Aisesha Smalley 1, Jo Falesita 1, Alafou Fatu 1. Conversions: Sieni Mose 3).
PNG 45 (Tries: Mala Mark 3, Jill Yallon 2, Taiva Lavai 1, Fatima Rama 1. Conversions: Lavai 5).
Samoa will take on Tonga at the same venue at 1pm on Tuesday.