25 Jun 2022

Rugby league: Kiwi Ferns defeat Mate Ma'a Tonga women 50-12

6:48 pm on 25 June 2022

The Kiwi Ferns have dismantled Mate Ma'a Tonga 50-12 in the women's rugby league clash at Mt Smart Stadium tonight in front of a packed house.

Madison Bartlett of New Zealand runs in a try during the women’s rugby league test match between New Zealand and Tonga at Mt Smart Stadium in Auckland.

Photo: AFP

Doubles to wingers Madison Bartlett and Katelyn Vaha'akolo spearheaded the Kiwi Ferns.

New Zealand scored seven first-half tries with a further three coming in the second half, in their first international outing in two years.

Debutants Amy Turner, Roxy Murdoch and Page McGregor all dotted down in their first outing in the black and white jersey.

Among a host of stars for the Ferns, Newcastle fullback Stephens-Daly was dynamic with two line breaks and five tackle breaks.

Kiwi Ferns coach Ricky Henry said it was an important outing as he tests combinations ahead of the the Rugby League World Cup in England which begins in October.

"It's good to get a game in for us," Henry said.

"I'm really happy with the win and how we started the game.

"There were patches we could have done better but all in all it was pretty positive."

See how the game unfolded with Finau Fonua's live updates.

Get the RNZ app

for ad-free news and current affairs

We have regular online commentary of local and international sport.