Church scores four tries as Jillaroos beat Fiji to reach World Cup final

Australia comes through Fiji’s early challenge

Australia defeated Fiji 30-14 in the Women’s Rugby League World Cup semi-final at Allianz Stadium in Sydney on Sunday, November 8. The result sets up a final against New Zealand in Brisbane, according to NRL’s official match report.

Fiji, making its first World Cup appearance, led 8-0 after a penalty goal and a converted try from Luisa Yaranamua. Australia responded through Abbi Church and Tamika Upton to draw level at 8-8 by halftime.

Four tries from Abbi Church

Church finished with four tries and 205 running metres. Her second try helped Australia take the lead early in the second half, and a crossfield kick from Tarryn Aiken set up her third.

Fiji narrowed the gap to 24-14 when Yaranamua’s pass sent Maria Paseka over on the right. Church then collected a high kick and ran 80 metres for her fourth try, helping Australia close out the match.

A place in the final secured

Captain Isabelle Kelly contributed 165 running metres, while Olivia Kernick made 19 runs for 156 metres. Jaime Chapman also scored for Australia.

The win advances the Jillaroos to the final and ends Fiji’s tournament at the semi-final stage. This is the women’s rugby league result; Australia’s separate men’s semi-final against Samoa is a different fixture.