Fetu Sāmoa on the brink of World Cup history

Fetu Sāmoa are on the verge of history as they headline round three of the Women’s Rugby League World Cup.

A win against England, who also have two wins from three matches, would see Fetu Sāmoa advance to the semi-finals for the first time in the squad’s World Cup history.

It has been a strong turnaround following their 40-0 defeat to the Australian Jillaroos, with Fetu bouncing back to hand Wales a staggering 76-0 loss in round two last weekend.

Fetu head coach Frank Pritchard told NRL Media the opening defeat served as fuel for the side’s dominant display against Wales.

“This week was about us and how we bounce back… I can’t wipe the smile off my face.”

Friday’s clash in Wollongong, (7.45pm NZT), will be uncharted waters for both sides, with WIN Stadium set to host the first-ever meeting between Fetu Sāmoa and England.

A key change to Pritchard’s line-up is the absence of round two player of the match Amber Hall, with the former Kiwi Fern sidelined through injury.

Young Cronulla Sharks NRLW second-rower Jaydika Tafua comes onto the bench as the side’s only change.

Bulikula face France

Meanwhile, the Fijian Bulikula have identified France as their toughest opponent of the tournament so far, ahead of Saturday’s match.

A win would secure the Bulikula a place in the semi-finals for the first time in their maiden World Cup campaign, with assistant coach Tony Herman telling the Fiji Sun the stakes are high.

“The girls are playing good footy and are able to go deep if the need arises. It’s a big game for us and all players are expected to be part of it.

“We [Bulikula] are in for the challenge.”

Orchids eye up Kiwi Ferns

Following their heavy defeat to Fiji, the Papua New Guinea Orchids will be looking to bounce back against the Kiwi Ferns and finish their pool-stage campaign on a positive note.

The fixture presents another important opportunity for the PNG women’s national rugby league team to test themselves against one of the leading sides in the international women’s game.

The Kiwi Ferns head into the clash after a dominant 96-0 victory over France in round two in Christchurch, setting a daunting challenge for the Orchids.

The sides meet on Saturday at 7.45pm NZT at Cbus Super Stadium on the Gold Coast.