Samoa have made history in the Rugby League World Cup.
When they defeated Tonga in the quarter-finals at Warrington Wolves’ Halliwell Jones Stadium, they set up a clash with England in their first ever World Cup semi-final.
After not winning a single game in the 2017 World Cup, Samoa did the unthinkable and defeated the home nation 27-26 with a Stephen Crichton drop goal breaking England hearts at the Emirates Stadium in Golden Point extra time in one of the all-time great World Cup clashes.
Now, Samoa are set to play in the country’s first ever World Cup Final not just in rugby league but in any sport.
They’ve received support from Hollywood star Dwyane Johnson, formerly of the WWE and of Samoan heritage.
Meanwhile, the Samoa Deputy Prime Minister spoke to the squad after their semi-final win last week and was in tears.
Now, Australia stand in their way at Old Trafford and Samoa will have to do everything in their power to dethrone Mal Meninga’s World Cup holders.
They have some star players including NRL Grand Final winners like the aforementioned Crichton and star Jarome Luai.
Meanwhile, Super League stars like Tim Lafai of the Salford Red Devils and Ligi Sao of Hull FC have also been leading the way with the pair crossing for tries against England.
Meanwhile, Castleford Tigers coach Lee Radford has been acting as Matt Parish’s assistant throughout the tournament and some of his star players from the Jungle have been helping Samoa prepare by heading down to training.
The likes of Suaia Matagi and Burerta Faraimo have been involved as they look to help Samoa win the World Cup.
Matagi was at last week’s semi-final with a Samoan flag showing how much it means to him.
