Kini stars for Kiwis as Tonga's Katoa taken to hospital
New Zealand fullback Keano Kini led the team to a 40-14 Pacific Cup victory over Tonga.
The Kiwis won due to a dominant pack and impressive displays by Keano Kini and five-eighth Dylan Brown.
- Tonga needed to win by 18 points to qualify for the final in Sydney on November 9.
- However, they were never in contention, ultimately losing 40-14 at Eden Park.
Tonga's second-rower Eliesa Katoa suffered a head knock during warm-up and left the field twice for HIAs.
"My job is not to question doctors,"
said Coach Kristian Woolf, regarding Katoa's injury and clearance to play.
Author's summary: New Zealand defeats Tonga 40-14 in Pacific Cup match.