Halse Shines in World Cup Debut: Australia Crushes Samoa

Caitlyn Halse: Dream Debut at the Rugby World Cup

Young Caitlyn Halse, only 18 years old, described her World Cup debut as “surreal” and “amazing”. The Australian player had an outstanding performance in Australia’s victory over Samoa with a score of 73-0. Halse, originally from Picton, New South Wales, became the youngest Australian to participate in a Women’s Rugby World Cup. The athlete celebrated the occasion with two tries, contributing to the historic victory of the Wallaroos. With 11 international matches prior to the tournament, Halse revealed that since the beginning of 2024, he had set out to be part of the World Cup team, a dream that materialized at the Salford Stadium.

“I’d say it was surreal. I had never played in a stadium with so many fans watching me. It was incredible, but definitely surreal to be there.”

Caitlyn Halse

The player added: “Since I joined the team, I wasn’t sure about participating, but once I was selected, I worked for it. Being here is simply amazing.” Despite the intense pressure exerted by Samoa, the Wallaroos managed to keep their undefeated record. Halse highlighted the team’s resilience, which gives them confidence for the crucial match against the United States.

“It was an 80-minute match, Samoa is very tough and had many opportunities, but we stopped them. We can take a lot of confidence from that.”

Caitlyn Halse

“The United States will be a difficult rival, more tactical than Samoa, but they will be in the game for the 80 minutes and I think we must stay true to what we do well,” added Halse. When Australia deployed its offensive game, it proved unstoppable, with Halse and Desiree Miller leading the attack. The combination with Maya Stewart on the right wing demonstrates the team’s potential. Halse also lamented the loss of Charlotte Caslick due to injury, but is confident in the performance of her teammates: “Unfortunately, we lost Charlotte before the tournament due to an ankle injury, but we have great finishers like Desiree and Maya.” “We have strong backs, so let’s hope to keep building on that and put the ball in their hands a little more,” he concluded.