Match in Pictures: Tonga 24-18 Papua New Guinea

Relive all the action after Kristian Woolf's side snatched a dramatic late victory

18 Oct 2022

Match in Pictures: Tonga 24-18 Papua New Guinea

Relive all the action after Kristian Woolf's side snatched a dramatic late victory

By Andrew Lawton at Totally Wicked Stadium

Keaon Koloamatangi snatched a 24-18 victory for Tonga over a defiant Papua New Guinea with a thrilling try at the death in their opening Rugby League World Cup fixture in St Helens.

Koloamatangi dived onto captain Siosiua Taukeiaho's grubber kick to break Papua New Guinea hearts after they had fought back from 18-6 down at half-time to draw level with 10 minutes left to play.

Tries from Will Penisini, Isaiya Katoa and Moeaki Fotuaika had put Tonga, without captain Jason Taumalolo due to suspension, in control after the Kumuls’ captain Rhyse Martin had opened the scoring.

But Lachlan Lam dotted down for Papua New Guinea at the start of the second half to reduce the deficit before Dan Russell went over to set up a dramatic finish in the opening Group D fixture.

But Tonga, showing the grit and determination that saw them reach the semi-finals of this competition in 2017, somehow conjured up a late score through makeshift hooker Kolomatangi to snatch the victory.

Here are some of the best pictures from a pulsating evening on Merseyside:

Tonga began the evening with their traditional Sipi Tau welcome at Totally Wicked Stadium. Getty Images.

Leeds Rhinos second rower Rhyse Martin celebrates going over for the opening try of the game. Getty Images.

Moeaki Fotuaika shows his emotion at scoring Tonga's second try at the home of St Helens. Getty Images.

Tonga cannot hide their joy after 18-year-old Isaiya Katoa bags the third try before half-time. Getty Images.

Dan Russell hugs his teammates after scoring the try that brought Papua New Guinea level after Rhyse Martin's successful conversion. Getty Images.

Will Penisini makes a break for it to score his side's first try of the tournament. Getty Images.

Tonga players pose for a team photo after escaping with a win over a dogged Papua New Guinea side in their first hit out. Getty Images.

The Rugby League World Cup promises to be the biggest, best and most inclusive event in the sport’s 127-year history with men’s, women’s and wheelchair teams competing in 61 games across 21 venues throughout England. Tickets are available via rlwc2021.com/tickets