'Etched in history': Moana win first trophy for Cook Islands

Tupou-Witchman, related to Tongan prop Pani Hopoate through family ties, played a significant role in Moana's impressive 42-24 victory in Port Moresby, marking a historic moment for the Cook Islands as they secured what may be their most important sporting trophy to date.

The Cook Islands has participated in the Olympic Games since 1988 without earning a medal, although they have claimed a bronze in men's pairs bowls at the 2018 Commonwealth Games and a gold in the women's rugby league 9s at the 2023 Pacific Games.

Nonetheless, the women's Pacific Bowl represents the first trophy captured by the Cook Islands in an elite sporting context.

After overcoming a three-year winning streak by defeating Papua New Guinea 34-6 just a week prior, Moana has achieved back-to-back victories for the first time. Their success against the Orchids also marks their first win against another Southern Hemisphere team since 2003.