In this bulletin:
1. RUGBY — Fiji 7s falls in New York, World Series drought continues
2. RUGBY — PM Rabuka commends historic Fijian Drua win in Ba
3. RUGBY LEAGUE — PNG hopeful, excited about NRL entry
4. RUGBY — Blues ease away from Moana Pasifika after Pulu red card
5. FOOTBALL — Setareki Hughes double gives Bula FC priceless win
6. FOOTBALL — Excellent Vanuatu United end South Melbourne unbeaten run
7. FOOTBALL — Late drama as Auckland FC edge past Solomon Kings FC
8. FOOTBALL — Boyers hat-trick gives South Island United vital win
9. ATHLETICS — Fiji Sports infrastructure neglected: Miller
10. ATHLETICS — Parents raise concerns over Fiji finals ticket price increase
11. PNG GAMES — MoU secures safety plan for 8th PNG Games
12. RUGBY LEAGUE — ‘May never be broken’: Prime Minister leads tributes to AJ
USA – RUGBY: FBC SPORTS PACNEWS: Mon 16 Mar 2026
Fiji 7s falls in New York, World Series drought continues
NEW YORK, 16 MARCH 2026 (FBC SPORTS) —The Fiji Airways Fijian 7s team’s World Series and USA 7s title drought continues after going down 10-7 in the final in New York.
Fiji last won the Series title seven years ago under Gareth Baber.
South Africa’s win meant they claimed the World Series title with 106 points, while Fiji finished second on 104.
Fiji had the possession but failed to break the solid South African defence. The South Africans started strongly and outmuscled the Fijians in the contact area and scored first to lead 5-nil at halftime.
They returned after the break and shocked Fiji with another try in the corner, which was unconverted.
The national side threw everything at the Blitzboks 7s before Terio Tamani struck with a team try with three minutes left.
Trailing 10-7, the Osea Kolinisau coached team had the ball and was building on something special, but unfortunately, Kavekini Tanivanuakula, lost the ball forward five meters out from the tryline with only 28 seconds to play.
Fiji earlier beat Australia 28-7 in the semifinal this morning.
Australia scored first in the match, but Fiji came back to score four converted tries.
Joseva Talacolo and George Bose managed to cross for Fiji in the first half.
Second-half tries were scored by Viwa Naduvalo and Kavekini Tanivanuakula……PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY: FIJI SUN PACNEWS: Mon 16 Mar 2026
PM Rabuka commends historic Fijian Drua win in Ba
BA, 16 MARCH 2026 (FIJI SUN) —Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has congratulated the Fijian Drua following their historic 42–27 victory over the ACT Brumbies during the Super Rugby Pacific clash at 4R Stadium in Ba on Saturday.
Rabuka said the win was a proud and memorable moment for Fiji, especially as it was the first time the Drua had defeated the Brumbies since joining the competition in 2022.
“This victory is a significant milestone for the Drua and for Fijian rugby. The team displayed determination, discipline and true Fijian spirit in front of a passionate home crowd,” he said.
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The Prime Minister attended the match and met with Phil Waugh, Chief Executive Officer of Rugby Australia, during the historic fixture.
He said the meeting further reflected the strong relationship between Fiji and Australia under the renewed and elevated Vuvale Partnership, particularly in strengthening cooperation through sport.
The Prime Minister also noted that the match marked the first Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific game to be hosted in Ba, making it a historic occasion for rugby supporters in the province.
“With a sold-out stadium, it was wonderful to see fans from across the country come together to support the teams and celebrate rugby,” he said.
Rabuka also commended both teams for delivering an exciting and competitive match and thanked the large crowd of supporters who turned out in numbers to cheer them on.
Also present at the match was Kristy Giteau, Co-president of Rugby Australia, along with government ministers, assistant ministers and official delegations.
Fijian Drua captain Frank Lomani described their historic 42-27 Super Rugby Pacific win over the ACT Brumbies ‘as special’.
Speaking in front of a sell-out crowd at Ba’s Four R Stadium, Lomani said the support from the people of the Ba Province was massive.
“We felt their presence with us in the field,” Lomani said.
The tough halfback also hailed vice-captains Isoa Nasilasila and Tuidraki Samusamuvodre for making things easier for him.
Playing under humid conditions, the Drua started strongly to take a 3-0 lead in the 5th minute when Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula kicked over a penalty after the Brumbies were caught offside.
The visitors hit back with a try to winger Hudson Creighton after following through a grubber kick from Klayton Thorn, the conversion went wide as they led 5-3.
The Drua played open rugby, which opened up gaps in the Brumbies defence. Samusamuvodre from a passing movement was able to create a gap for flanker Etonia Waqa to score a try in the corner. Ravula converted as they regained the lead 10-5.
The Brumbies dominated the breakdown and continued to apply the pressure. The Drua gave away several penalties before referee Paul Williams showed the yellow card to prop Mesake Doge in the 18th minute.
The Drua defence held on as they connected with their one-on-one tackles.
In the 25th minute young Brumbies lock Toby Macpherson crashed over for a try and Drua No.8 Elia Canakaivata copped a yellow card for an infringement. The conversion went over as the Brumbies again led 12-10.
Playing with 13-men, the Drua again took the lead 13-12 in the 26th minute when Ravula converted his second penalty.
The hosts never looked back as the Brumbies struggled to keep up with the pace of the game. From a forward rush, Canakaivata picked up the loose ball to dive over to score their second try with Ravula landing the extras for a 20-12 lead at halftime.
There was heavy rain at the start of the second half and in the 44th minute from a rolling maul Drua hooker Sairusi Ravudi peeled off to score a try on his debut, the conversion went wide, as they now lead 25-12.
In the 51st minute the Drua extended their lead to 32-12 when a crosskick from Ravula found winger Joji Nasova who committed the last defender before offloading the ball to Ilaisa Droasese to score in the corner. Ravula landed the conversion.
The Brumbies fought back as Macpherson scored his second try in the 54th minute. The conversion went wide as they trailed 32-17.
In the 58th minute under slippery condition, Ryan Lonergan exchanged passes with Creighton before going over for a try, which was not converted, as they narrowed the deficit to 32-22.
In the 66th minute Ravula landed his third penalty to extend Drua’s lead to 35-22.
In the 70th minute in a moment of brilliance Samusamuvodre kicked behind the Brumbies defence, collected the ball and offloaded it to Droasese to score his second try with Ravula converting for a 42-22 win.
The Brumbies kept coming back with Adam Muirhead scoring a consolation try as they bowed out 42-27. ….PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY: AAP PACNEWS: Mon 16 Mar 2026
Blues ease away from Moana Pasifika after Pulu red card
ACKLAND, 16 MARCH 2026 (AAP)—The Blues have claimed bragging rights with a 43-7 win over Moana Pasifika at Eden Park.
Vern Cotter’s side were tested early on by the visitors, but pulled away late to avenge last year’s loss to their Auckland neighbours.
The big moment in the match came in the 16th minute when Augustine Pulu was red-carded for a high tackle.
Trailing 5-0, Moana Pasifika looked to spark their attack as Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa and Patrick Pellegrini both broke through, before the latter turned it over.
As Blues scrum half Sam Nock tried his own counter, Pulu collected him in the head, with the initial yellow card upgraded as Nock, who scored the opener, failed his HIA.
His replacement, Taufa Funaki, had an immediate impact, setting up AJ Lam with a grubber kick.
The visitors rallied after Pulu’s fate was confirmed, with Millis Sanerivi getting them on the board in the 26th minute.
Ofa Tu’ungafasi gave the Blues an eight-point lead at the break, but Moana Pasifika had all the running late in the half after two tries were denied due to offside and obstruction, respectively.
A trademark Vern Cotter spray at half-time fired up the Blues as their forwards went to work in the second half.
Marcel Renata and Sam Darry both crossed early in the half to give the hosts a commanding advantage.
Tries to Codemuru Vai and Mason Tupara sealed the blow out win as the Blues jumped to second on the ladder.
They sit on 15 points, sharing top spot with the Hurricanes and ACT Brumbies, as they face a trip to Sydney to face the NSW Waratahs.
Meanwhile, Moana Pasifika remain vaulted to the bottom of the ladder, facing the difficult challenge of hosting the Crusaders weekend….PACNEWS
PNG – RUGBY LEAGUE: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS: Mon 16 Mar 2026
PNG hopeful, excited about NRL entry
PORT MORESBY, 16 MARCH 2026 (THE NATIONAL)—The people of Papua New Guinea are full of hope and excitement about their National Rugby League (NRL) entry in 2028 and the club wants to deliver that optimism through a competitive side, says PNG Chiefs general manager Michael Chammas.
“People want hope and we want to give them hope,” Chammas said.
“Are we going to win a premiership in a certain number of years? Who knows.
“But from the conversations I’ve had with players and agents, I genuinely believe we will have a very competitive football team.”
Chammas made the comments during an interview on The Bye Round Podcast, addressing questions about whether the club could win a premiership within its first few seasons in the NRL.
He said he is confident about the quality of players the club will attract and believes the football side of the project will come together strongly.
“I’m not worried about how our football team will be put together or the calibre of player we’ll get,” Chammas said.
Instead, Chammas explained that his main priority is ensuring the off-field environment is well organised for players relocating to Port Moresby.
“Our focus is making sure everything around them is seamless – their families, wives, kids, security and lifestyle,” he said.
“That is our biggest challenge, but we will make sure those things are in place.”
Chammas said once those systems are established, the club will be able to focus fully on building a strong team capable of competing with the best in the NRL.
He admitted it is too early to predict whether the Chiefs could make the finals in their first few seasons….PACNEWS
PAC – FOOTBALL: OFC PACNEWS: Mon 16 Mar 2026
Setareki Hughes double gives Bula FC priceless win
HONIARA, 16 MARCH 2026 (OFC)—Two second-half goals from substitute Setareki Hughes gave Bula FC victory over Tahiti United and the perfect start to their week in Honiara.
The two sides were equally desperate for a win to boost their top four chances, knowing a win would put them just one point away from a potential place in the Leaders Group.
It was Tahiti United who enjoyed the lion’s share of the first-half action, with the ever-impressive Teaonui Tehau instrumental in much of their attacking play.
Manuarii Shan had the first attempt on goal – his close-range effort smothered well by Bula FC stopper Matthew Foord, before Tehau scored what he thought was the opener.
Getting his head to the ball from a Mateo Degrumelle corner, celebrations were eventually tempered following a VAR check that found the ball had brushed Tehau’s arm on the way into the net.
Roy Krishna came within inches of opening the score at the other end. The prolific marksman reacting first after Fergus Gillion’s free-kick deflected off the wall, thundering his effort off the crossbar from ten yards out.
Tehau twice came close again before the interval. First with a low effort following a lay-off by Degrumelle that Foord saved down low, before a clever clipped effort came back off the upright, as Samuel Garcia’s side pressed for the opener.
Neither side was able to maintain the impressive tempo from the first period, with Tahiti United especially struggling to create as many chances as they had in the opening 45 minutes.
Tehau unsurprisingly did have an excellent opportunity on a rare foray forward, but the captain fired wide when well placed to test Foord.
Stephane Auvray made a number of changes, including bringing on the dangerous Setareki Hughes and it was the Bula FC No.9 that made the difference.
Tahiti United failed to deal with a stock standard long ball over the top, with Hughes nipping in to beat Pothin Poma to the ball, before firing past Jackson Gardner at the near post.
Five minutes later and Hughes had his and Bula FC’s second. Fed the ball by Krishna down the right hand channel, Hughes cut inside Poma smartly before lashing an effort into the far corner, giving Gardner no chance.
Tahiti United continued to push but were largely unable to trouble Matthew Foord in the Bula FC goal.
Bula themselves will be delighted to register their third win of the season, lifting them to 12 points – now just one point off a top four position.
Bula FC: 2 (Setareki HUGHES 71′, 76′)
Tahiti United: 0
HT: 0-0…PACNEWS
PAC – FOOTBALL: OFC PACNEWS: Mon 16 Mar 2026
Excellent Vanuatu United end South Melbourne unbeaten run
HONIARA, 16 MARCH 2026 (OFC)—Vanuatu United FC became the first team to secure victory over South Melbourne FC after a superb performance in their opening Round 4 match in Honiara.
The Australian side left a number of first-choice players at home, including captain Marco Jankovic and Jordon Lampard, as they balanced their OFC Pro League campaign with domestic commitments.
Vanuatu United looked to take advantage of the circumstances and enjoyed the wealth of possession in the first-half, as they bid to rebound from defeat to PNG Hekari FC in their final Round 3 fixture.
There was an early setback when the influential Bill Kaltack was forced off within the half hour through injury. Kerry Iawak coming off the bench for the unforeseen reshuffle.
Alex Saniel has been Vanuatu United’s biggest goal scoring threat this season and it was the No.7 again who made the impact for Lars Hopp’s side.
William Cardona whipped an excellent corner kick in from the left-hand side and Saniel rose highest to power a header past Ilia Shalamanov-Trenkova.
The same combination almost yielded a second soon after, but Saniel was unable to properly connect with a Cardona cross and South Melbourne were able to hang on and survive just one down heading into the break.
Sinisa Cohadzic made a change at half-time, bringing on James Lackay for Che Gorr Burchmore, but it was Vanuatu United who started the second period on the front foot, when Owen Smith went close to doubling the lead.
The game opened up considerably as both sides pushed forward, with South Melbourne trying desperately to get Yuki Uchida and Jordan Swibel into influential positions.
Winger Arran Cocks was the first to go close for his side as the clocked ticked over the hour mark. Cutting in from the right-hand side, his effort was well hit, but too close to Matt Acton, who held on firmly.
Despite their best efforts however, it was Vanuatu United who looked more threatening and they finally made their pressure pay with a wonderful second goal.
Alex Saniel’s aggressive press forced a mistake at the back, with Otto Ingham picking up the ball. He played it to Cardona who flipped a delicate pass over the defensive line to Owen Smith. Smith in turn laid it off first time to Ingham who finished past Shalamanov-Trenkova to make it 2-0.
South Melbourne looked to have won an immediate chance to pull a goal back when referee Ben Aukwai pointed to the spot following a foul by Jason Thomas on Jack Pope. A VAR check however deemed the infringement took place outside the area.
Swibel took the resulting free-kick and after Acton spilled his effort, Luka Coveny hooked a rebound up and off the top of the bar, as Vanuatu United breathed a sigh of relief.
It proved to be the final genuine chance as Vanuatu United held on to inflict South Melbourne’s first defeat of the campaign and push themselves to the brink of the top four.
Vanuatu United FC: 2 (Alex SANIEL 32′, Otto INGHAM 79′)
South Melbourne FC: 0
HT: 1-0…PACNEWS
PAC – FOOTBALL: OFC PACNEWS: Mon 16 Mar 2026
Late drama as Auckland FC edge past Solomon Kings FC
HONIARA, 16 MARCH 2026 (OFC)—Substitute Aston Burns scored a late winner and Oscar Mason produced a stoppage-time penalty save to give Auckland FC a narrow victory over Solomon Kings FC in Honiara.
The only team to beat Auckland FC this season, Solomon Kings were backed by thousands of noisy and passionate fans inside the National Stadium, keen to see the country’s first-ever professional football team.
The early stages were dominated by the home team, with the volume levels rising considerably any time Ben Cahn’s side picked up possession inside the Auckland FC half.
Despite this, it was the New Zealanders with the first shot on goal. Matt Ellis picking up the ball on the right-hand side and flashing an effort just wide of Junior Petua’s far post.
At the other end, Japanese playmaker Sota Higashide produced a similar effort, with his cross-shot arrowing wide of Oscar Mason’s goal.
The league leaders certainly stepped up their game in the second-half but clear cut chances remained at a premium.
Emiliano Tade went close just over five minutes after the break, when his free-kick from the right floated over everyone, including ‘keeper Petua, only to thud back off the crossbar.
Isa Prins was the next to have a sight of goal. The midfielder rising highest to glance a header goalward, but his effort lacked pace and direction, unable to force a save from Petua.
Solomon Kings were struggling to replicate their first half confidence but did slowly work their way back into the contest.
William Komasi drilled a wonderful effort just wide from nearly 30 yards, whilst Don Keana brought out a smart save from Oscar Mason when firing in at the near post.
Auckland however continued to look the more threatening when they did get into attacking positions and had the decisive say late on.
Aston Burns, who had been brought off the bench by Luke Casserly to add some firepower, did just that with minutes remaining.
The forward picking the ball up on the right-wing and driving at the Solomon Kings defence, gliding with ease past three players before prodding his effort underneath Petua to break the deadlock.
There would be late drama to threaten their lead however. Referee David Yareboinen awarding a penalty in the tenth minute of stoppage time, throwing the home side a lifeline.
Sota Higashide stepped up to take, but was denied by a stunning save by Mason, throwing himself to his left and tipping the ball around the post, ensuring the three points for the Kiwis.
Solomon Kings FC: 0
Auckland FC: 1 (Aston BURNS 87′)
HT: 0-0…PACNEWS
PAC – FOOTBALL: OFC PACNEWS: Mon 16 Mar 2026
Boyers hat-trick gives South Island United vital win
HONIARA, 16 MARCH 2026 (OFC)—South Island United kicked off Round 4 of the OFC Pro League with a valuable win over PNG Hekari FC, thanks to a Rovu Boyers hat-trick.
Thunderstorms had caused a delay to kick off, but standing water on the pitch was able to be cleared and the game finally got underway just over an hour behind schedule.
Both sides certainly made up for the wait, with the first half flying by in a blur of chances, goals and red cards.
Only five minutes were on the clock when PNG Hekari FC took the lead. Rex Naime found captain Ati Kepo down the right-hand side and continued his run, eventually latching onto Kepo’s cut back and drilling the ball low past Steven Van Dijk.
The lead lasted just over ten minutes however, when Solomon Islander Rovu Boyers delighted the home crowd with the equaliser. The ball was initially played into David Yoo, who laid off to Boyers and the midfielder placed his effort past Dave Tomare and in off the post.
Minutes later and the first red card of the match was brandished by referee Cory Mills. South Island United’s Haris Zeb was played through, catching out a high PNG Hekari defensive line, only to be brought down by Nelson Karaun, denying a goal scoring opportunity.
Rob Sherman’s side wasted little time in taking full advantage. A free-kick from the right-hand side by Yoo caused panic in the box, with Lekima Gonerau’s attempt at a clearance only succeeding in deflecting the ball in off the post with Tomare helpless.
Ati Kepo made his team’s challenge even tougher when he picked up a second yellow card and was dismissed – the forward’s third red card of the season.
PNG Hekari offered brave resistance in the second period, despite their two man deficit and did force Van Dijk into a save, with the goalkeeper awkwardly punching away a well-hit shot from Kasum Gabriel.
Ryan Feutz, who had been having a quiet afternoon, had a good chance to add another for his side but headed straight at Dave Tomare.
It took until after the hour mark for South Island United to finally make their advantage count. Rovu Boyers grabbing his second with a close-range finish following a good low cross from the right by Ry McLeod.
The Solomon Islander would cap off a perfect day with ten minutes left, completing his hat-trick with another finish from inside the area. Substitute goalkeeper Nabo Pongi couldn’t hold onto Lewis Partridge’s cross and Boyers was on hand to secure a hat-trick, hammering the ball high into the net.
The win gives the New Zealanders the perfect start to Round 4 and consolidates their position in the top four.
South Island United: 4 (Rovu BOYERS 16′ 65′, 80′, Own Goal 26′)
PNG Hekari FC: 1 (Rex NAIME 5′)
FIJI – ATHLETICS: FIJI SUN PACNEWS: Mon 16 Mar 2026
Fiji Sports infrastructure neglected: Miller
SUVA, 16 MARCH 2026 (OFC)—Fiji national athletics coach Albert Miller Snr is calling for urgent upgrade of sporting facilities in the country.
He said athletics tracks have become an occupational health and safety (OHS) risk for athletes at Lautoka’s Churchill Park.
“Looking at sporting facilities, you see a lot of tracks that need to be replaced immediately. It’s an OHS issue,” Miller said.
He said sporting infrastructure had been neglected for years despite the important role sport plays in the country.
“Sporting facilities are always at the bottom of the waiting list even though we contribute a lot to the welfare and wellbeing of the country.”
Miller said decisive action from Government could benefit thousands of athletes and citizens who rely on sports facilities for training and recreation.
“If they have the will, hopefully they will look into it and be able to take some action. It will benefit thousands and thousands of citizens.”
He added that providing proper facilities and resources would allow sporting bodies to better prepare athletes to represent Fiji.
“At the end of the day we have to make sure we provide the facilities, the resources and the support to sporting bodies so they can train and compete well for the country.”….PACNEWS
FIJI – ATHLETICS: FIJI SUN PACNEWS: Mon 16 Mar 2026
Parents raise concerns over Fiji finals ticket price increase
SUVA, 16 MARCH 2026 (FIJI SUN)—Parents and supporters have expressed concerns regarding the increase of the Fiji Finals ticket prices.
The grandstand three-day package will be $60(US$30) compared to $55(US$27.50) during last year’s Coca-Cola Games.
Fiji Secondary Schools Athletics Association (FSSAA) secretary Biu Colati confirmed during their vehicle handover on Wednesday.
Colati said the $5(US$2.50) increase would go towards the FSSAA Under-16 and U18 team preparation for the Oceania Games in Darwin on 18-2 3May .
“Our job will be to look for their airfare, uniform and all those kinds of things. We don’t want athletes to be doing any fundraising, and that is why we’ve decided we will increase our ticket price by $5.”
Ratu Kadavulevu School (RKS) parent Ela Lalovaki said it would be costly for parents.
“It’s very expensive for those who have more than one child in high school, especially parents like us who always support our children,” Lalovaki said.
She added it would also weigh more on parents who travel from maritime islands, interior of Viti Levu and Vanua Levu.
They’ll probably have to resort to watching TV.”
Another parent, Samuela Vela who travelled from Bua said that new fees would affect their budget.
He said travelling costs from Va-nua Levu required many expenses, especially when staying with relatives in Suva for the duration of the Games.
“Not all parents are government officials and some of us come straight from our farms, while some work as usual farm labour-ers.”
Mere Tuinaceva, a parent who resides in Suva, said the organisers should have consulted them first about the increase, since it was an annual event attended by everyone.
“They should have at least given them a heads-up before raising the fees by $5(US$2.50),” Tuinaceva said.
RKS principal Joseva Jale feels that Fiji Sports Council or Co-ca-Cola Games executives should consider that all students do not have the same family background.
“It’s very important that we think of other factors before de-ciding on any increase in the admission. I hope they will come up with a good decision before they finalise the admission,” Jale said…PACNEWS
PNG – PNG GAMES: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS: Mon 16 Mar 2026
MoU secures safety plan for 8th PNG Games
PORT MORESBY, 16 MARCH 2026 (THE NATIONAL)—The 8th PNG Games will be staged in Mendi, Southern Highlands, in either June or July.
A memorandum of understanding (MoU) on security arrangements was signed between the PNG Sports Foundation (PNGSF) and the Southern Highlands Unity Games coordination unit.
Department of Prime Minister and National Executive Council (PMNEC) safety and security advisor Jerry Geno will oversee the delivery of safety and security measures for the event.
“We meet here to sign an MoU that’s not legally binding. However, it allows PNGSF to provide support and for the safety and security committee to ensure a safe venue for the Unity Games in Mendi,” Geno said.
“This understanding will fast-track some of the things we want to do but have been delaying.”
Deputy Police Commissioner (special operations) Donald Yamasombi described the occasion as significant, stressing that safety and security are critical to the success of any major event.
“We have already prepared our concept of operations for the Unity Games, but we are yet to set a date to launch it,” he said.
“Time is against us, but this partnership with PNGSF ensures accountability in how funds are managed. Though the MoU is not legally binding, it guides processes for assessing and processing claims, ensuring transparency in expenditure.” Yamasombi added that procurement, allowances, and other costs will be closely monitored, while St John’s Ambulance and the Fire Service will establish facilities in Mendi during the Games.
PNGSF chief executive officer Micah James thanked the office of the chief secretary, the coordination team, and the safety and security committee for mobilising resources towards a common cause.
“One of the important areas where youths can come together to identify, meet, and empower themselves moving forward is through sports,” James said.
“This event gives them the opportunity to recognise their role in nation-building.”
AUST – RUGBY LEAGUE: NRL PACNEWS: Mon 16 Mar 2026
‘May never be broken’: Prime Minister leads tributes to AJ
SYDNEY, 16 MARCH 2026 (NRL)—Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has led tributes to Alex Johnston after the South Sydney star and Papua New Guinea international became the greatest try scorer in premiership history
Johnston broke Ken Irvine’s 53-year record of 212 tries when he raced 40 metres to score in the first set of tackles after halftime against Sydney Roosters before a sold-out Allianz Stadium crowd, which included the Prime Minister.
The 31-year-old winger had earlier drawn level with Irvine when he crossed in the first half and then got his record breaking 213th after a backing up a break by Latrell Mitchell and outpacing Mark Nawaqanitawase to score.
Albanese, who is a life-long Souths fan and previously served as a Rabbitohs director, was among the first to congratulate Johnston for his history making feat, which sparked a stoppage in the game as fans ran onto the field to celebrate.
PM Anthony Albanese has his say on the historic night.
“I congratulate Alex Johnston on breaking the all-time try-scoring record, an achievement that has stood for more than half a century,” the Prime Minister told NRL.com.
“AJ has become an all-time legend. With years left in his playing career, his record may never be broken.
“As a Souths tragic, I’m so happy he wears the cardinal and myrtle. But the entire rugby league community can be proud of his contribution to the game. He is also an absolute gentleman off the field who cares about his community.”
Johnston, who returned to the field after the stoppage wearing a new jersey with a gold No.2 on his back, has played 245 NRL matches since debuting for Souths in 2014.
“That was history and it’s history that might never be broken, certainly not in my lifetime,” the Prime Minister said. “213 tries, not out of course. He will keep going.
“Alex Johnston carries himself so well on the field and off the field.
“For South Sydney supporters who marched to get us back in the comp when I was on the board – 100,000 marching to show their loyalty to South Sydney but also their love for the game of rugby league – and Alex Johnston is such a humble man, I can’t think of anyone better to hold the record.’
A descendant of Saibai Island in the Torres Strait, Johnston proudly represents his Indigenous and Papua New Guinean heritage and has made it known he would like to be player No.1 for the new PNG Chiefs team entering the NRL in 2028.
Kumuls great Justin Olam, who played alongside Johnston at the World Cup in 2022, said the try scoring record would be an inspiration to Papua New Guineans.
“I am very proud of him and for the effort he has put in to play this long and maintain his form to score so many tries, and he is still going at the top level,” Olam said.
“There have been some great tryscorers in the last 52 years so for him to break the record is a testament to his legacy and it is something every Papua New Guinean can be proud of.
To see a fellow Kumul setting the record as the highest tryscorer in the sport is a big inspiration for young Papua New Guineans and kids back at home who look up to Alex Johnston will be driven to be like him.
“He goes back and does some work in PNG to inspire young kids so that is going to be massive, and it will definitely be good for the development of the game.”
Marcus Bai, who is widely considered PNG’s greatest player, also told NRL.com that having a Kumul as the greatest tryscorer in premiership history would inspire Papua New Guineans for decades
“He is our blood, and we are proud that he has chosen to come to play for PNG,” sad Bai, who a member of the PNG Chiefs’ board.
“The big thing with our boys is that they see him, and they think, ‘what he can do, I can do’, so he motivates them and that becomes the conversation in the village.
“Even though he didn’t play his juniors here, we claim him. He has made us proud, and we will all celebrate with him because the all-time record is not far away.”
Fellow internationals Brian To’o and Jacob Kiraz also paid tribute to Johnston for his achievement.
“I’ve watched him ever since he started playing for the Bunnies and he’s always been one of my favorite wingers to watch,” Penrith and Samoa’s To’o said.
He’s obviously been killing it for Souths for a long time and for him to be the top try scorer, I reckon he definitely deserves that and the praise that he is due.
“I’m really happy for him for how far he’s come throughout his career and to beat that record shows he is definitely up there as one of the best.”
Canterbury winger Kiraz, who will be one of the big names in Lebanon side at RLWC2026, also said Johnston was a player he looked up to.
“It must be nice to score that many tries but honestly, it is massive,” Kiraz told NRL.com.
“Every time I go up against him, I speak to my brother and say I’m not going to let him score and then every game he’s played against me, I think he’s scored.
“He has just always shown his try scoring ability and even though people say he only has to catch the ball, you just can’t give him any space because he’s so rapid and quick.
“He’s a great human too, so I have full respect to him. He deserves that record.” he said…. PACNEWS