Three tries from winger Kiah Taofoi enabled Malta to defeat the Philippines, 30-6, in a women’s senior international for world ranking points at Centenary Oval, Croom, NSW. Philippines were dealt a blow in the opening minute when prop Charlen Vaughan had to go off with an injured collar bone, Malta’s Leila Figallo scoring soon after from a kick to the corner by Annalise Xerri.
Taofoi went over on the left for her first, but Philippines responded with their sole try Kayla Horvat taking three defenders over with her to the left of the posts. Mackenzie Cassar responded in kind for the Dames and Tahlia Shuker made it 16-6 at the break on the back of a penalty. Malta co-coach Gaby Moore commented: “We suffered a couple of injuries coming into the game, but these girls are a credit to their jersey, they didn’t use it as an excuse. Our captain, Margo (Vella), led them superbly and we’ve got some great talent coming through.”
There were a number of injuries in the second half, Philippines losing two players to failed HIA’s and another to a shoulder problem. Taofoi posted her second try, Kirsty Sant broke to score between the posts and Taofoi intercepted to bring up her treble. Philippines women’s coach, Renee Targett, said: “It became hard for us to defend for so long. We’re really excited for what the future holds for Philippines Rugby League in general and the women’s game to see how far we can go.”
Malta 30
Margot Vella, Kiah Taofoi, Tahlia Shuker, Annalise Xerri, Leila Figallo, Kiara McGregor, Paityne Johns, Liaina Laila Rose Dimech, Matilda Vella, Jessica Borg, Mackenzie Cassar, Talara Tonna, Kirsty Sant
Interchange: Molly Mamo, Victoria Coppini
Tries: Figallo (3), Taofoi (15, 53, 73), Cassar (25), Shuker (35), Sant (69)
Goals: McGregor 0/6, Coppini 1/1
Philippines 6
Nat Webb, Brandy Baas, Anissa McCue, Merinda Duncan, Summer Chua, Madison Massey, Natalia Grant, Charlene Vaughan, Elizabeth Ferries, Kayla Horvat, Lila Reynolds, Brigette De Los Reyes, Janine Jamieson
Interchange: Dallis Graham-Withell, Tenice Nguyen, Manieya Aalders, Kalaye Skye Lees
Try: Horvat (19)
Goal: McCue 1/1
Half time: 16-6
Referee: Carter Spowert-Leighman (Australia)
