LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
In the first week of the Pacific Championships, the Brisbane Broncos' international representatives showcased their skills on the big stage.
Australian Kangaroos Payne Haas, Pat Carrigan, Kotoni Staggs, and Selwyn Cobbo displayed their quality in the opening game against Samoa, who had Broncos teammate Keenan Palasia on their roster.
The Australians dominated the match with a convincing 38-12 win.
Haas, in particular, had an exceptional performance and was rightfully crowned Player of the Match.
Despite only playing for 45 minutes, the front rower made a significant impact, scoring the opening try of the game and running an astonishing 172 meters, with 95 of those meters coming after contact.
He also made 21 tackles without a single miss.
Staggs, making his debut for Australia, led the charge in run meters, accumulating an impressive 195 meters and scoring a try in the final minute of the game.
He also took on the conversion duties, successfully slotting 5 out of 7 attempts.
On the opposing side, Palasia fought valiantly for Toa Samoa, attempting to halt the relentless Kangaroos.
He made 27 tackles with a 90% efficiency rate and showcased his resilience and skill with 2 offloads, 2 tackle breaks, and 120 run meters, with 50 of those meters coming after contact.