Australia reach World Cup final as Samoa fume at decisions

Australia are one win away from a record-extending 13th men's Rugby League World Cup title after beating Samoa 44-12 in a fractious clash to secure a showdown with New Zealand in next weekend's Brisbane final.

Tries: Dearden (8), Preston (14), Trbojevic (25), Walsh (32,47,66), Best (37), Bostock (72) Conversions: Munster (9,16,39,49,68,74)

Tries: Crichton (44), Tago (61) Conversions: Crichton (45) Penalties: Crichton (5)

The Kangaroos, like their female counterparts, are pursuing a fourth consecutive title and if they do defeat their Antipodean rivals on November 15, they will earn a 10th World Cup triumph in their last 11 attempts, stretching back to 1975.

Sunday's second semi-final - New Zealand defeated Tonga 34-10 in the first semi on Saturday - was a repeat of the World Cup final in 2022 at Old Trafford in Manchester, which Australia won 30-10 to land a third title in succession.

Source: Sky Sports