LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
In what has been described as "five of the best minutes of rugby league this season," New Zealand and Samoa delivered spine-tingling scenes before their Test match at Eden Park.
Despite the eventual annihilation of Samoa by the ruthless Kiwi side, with a final score of 50-0, the pre-match moments were nothing short of extraordinary.
The crowd, although not at full capacity, was adorned with Samoan flags, setting the scene for an emotional encounter.
As the Samoan anthem began, the fervor of the crowd almost drowned out the singer, demonstrating the passion and support for the team.
The players themselves were visibly moved, with tears streaming down the faces of captain Junior Paulo, Spencer Leniu, and Luciano Leilua.
While there has been debate surrounding the Australian players' decision not to sing their own anthem, it was evident that some of the Samoan players may not have known their anthem or were too overwhelmed with emotion to join in.
Nevertheless, the rendition of the Samoan anthem was equally powerful and impactful.