Instead of an easy victory, New Zealand were made to battle to an 18-12 win, having trailed 12-4 in the first half. They were 12-10 down at the break, marking the first time they have ever been behind at half-time in a World Cup match.
New Zealand women were given a World Cup wake-up call after they were forced to come from behind to beat debutants Fiji in their opening game.
The Ferns are one of the most successful teams in women's rugby league history. They have reached the final of all six World Cups, winning the first three before finishing runners up to Australia in the previous three years.
Reflecting on the hard-fought match, the team acknowledged the difficult performance."The good thing is we found a way, but the way we played is not what we should,"members stated, adding,"I reckon it's a wake-up call, and the girls will think so too.".