Miller’s Stunning Hat-Trick Powers Australia to Record Victory
The Wallaroos made history in their opening match of the Women’s Rugby World Cup, demolishing Samoa with a staggering 73-0 victory—their largest-ever win in tournament history. Wing Desiree Miller stole the spotlight with a sensational first-half hat-trick, spearheading Australia’s dominant performance and setting the tone for what could be a memorable campaign.
Domination from the Start
From the opening whistle, Australia imposed their physicality and skill, overwhelming a gritty but outmatched Samoa side. The Wallaroos crossed the try line 11 times, breaking their previous record of eight tries in a single World Cup match. Their relentless attack saw contributions from across the squad, but it was Miller who delivered the standout performance, showcasing blistering pace and clinical finishing.
Full-back Caitlyn Halse, the youngest player ever to represent Australia at a Women’s World Cup at just 18, also dazzled with a brilliant solo try. Her perfectly timed run sliced through Samoa’s defense, setting an early statement of intent. Meanwhile, forwards Grace Hamilton and Michaela Leonard laid the platform with hard carries, ensuring the team maintained momentum throughout the match.
A Tactical Masterclass by Joanne Yapp
Head coach Joanne Yapp, a former England captain, emphasized pre-tournament improvements in defensive structures and kicking strategy—elements that paid off handsomely in Salford.
We can take a lot of learnings from today, especially from that third quarter where we were tested defensively, Yapp said post-match. Our execution was strong, and the girls stepped up physically—which is crucial ahead of tougher tests.
Her side controlled possession effortlessly, exploiting gaps in Samoa’s defensive line with clever offloads and precise kicks. Scrum-half Layne Morgan orchestrated the attack efficiently, while fly-half Arabella McKenzie kept Samoa guessing with a mix of short passes and deep kicks.
Samoa’s Fighting Spirit
Despite the lopsided scoreline, Samoa refused to capitulate. Ranked 15th in the world, the Pacific Islanders—composed entirely of amateur players—showed resilience, particularly in the second half when their defensive efforts prevented further humiliation. Their sheer effort won admiration from the Salford crowd, who cheered them on despite the result.
Head coach Ramsey Tomokino acknowledged the gap in quality but highlighted the long-term benefits of competing at this level.
This is a learning curve for us, Tomokino said. Our players are ambassadors for Samoan rugby, inspiring the next generation. Being back at the World Cup after so long is significant, and we’ll grow from this experience.
What’s Next for the Wallaroos?
With the United States up next in York, Australia’s camp will be buoyed by this emphatic start. The match against the Americans will likely determine who advances from Pool A alongside England, who dismantled the U.S. 69-7 in their opener.
England, the tournament favorites, loom as Australia’s biggest hurdle. But if today’s performance is any indication, the Wallaroos have the firepower and discipline to challenge even the most formidable opponents.
For now, Desiree Miller’s heroics and Australia’s record-breaking win have sent a clear message to the competition: the Wallaroos are serious contenders.
