Casey McLean’s four-try haul and Brian To’o’s double headlined the Panthers’ performances in Round 3 of the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, as Australia, New Zealand, Tonga and Samoa secured their places in the semi-finals.
McLean starred in New Zealand’s commanding 78–0 victory over Fiji at Cbus Super Stadium, while Isaah Yeo captained Australia to a 66–6 win over the Cook Islands. To’o crossed twice for Samoa in a narrow 20–18 defeat to Tonga at CommBank Stadium.
McLean continued his outstanding international scoring form, crossing twice in each half as the Kiwis piled on 13 unanswered tries. The Panthers centre took his tally to an impressive 15 tries in just seven Tests, helping New Zealand finish the pool stage with a dominant performance.
McLean scores four in Kiwis clinic
Isaiah Papali’i returned to the starting side in the second row, while Moses Leota was back in the front row after being rested in Round 2. The Panthers forwards helped lay the platform for a comprehensive victory as New Zealand booked their place in the final four.
In Townsville, Yeo led Australia to their third consecutive victory as the Kangaroos finished unbeaten at the top of Pool A.
Liam Martin started in the second row and worked hard in defence, while Lindsay Smith contributed a 10-minute stint from the interchange bench. Delahia Wigmore also featured in the second row for the Cook Islands, whose tournament came to an end against the defending champions.
To’o provided two crucial finishes in Samoa’s thrilling clash with Tonga, opening his account in the 37th minute. A Jarome Luai kick ricocheted backwards off Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow before Stephen Crichton offloaded to send the Panthers winger over in the corner.
Bizza bags World Cup double
He crossed again in the 50th minute, finishing a movement sparked by another Luai kick and a Chanel Harris-Tavita offload to help Samoa fight their way back into the contest.
With Izack Tago also lining up at centre, Samoa recovered from a 14–4 deficit to lead 18–14, before a late Addin Fonua-Blake try secured victory for Tonga. Despite the two-point defeat, Samoa progressed to the semi-finals.
The results set up two blockbuster semi-finals, with New Zealand taking on Tonga and Australia facing Samoa as the Panthers contingent continues its pursuit of World Cup glory.
