Meli Laddpeter 
The Fiji Bulikula fell just short of a historic start to their Rugby League World Cup campaign after going down 18-12 to New Zealand this afternoon.
New Zealand opened the scoring within the first 10 minutes, but the Bulikula responded strongly with two converted tries to take a 12-10 lead into half-time.
Fiji continued to fight hard in the second half, but New Zealand regained the advantage after being awarded a penalty just metres from the try line. They converted the penalty kick to edge ahead before adding another successful penalty to extend their lead.
The Bulikula had several opportunities to get back on the scoreboard, but New Zealand’s defence stood firm to deny the Fijians a breakthrough.
New Zealand eventually sealed the 18-12 victory with a late try, leaving the Bulikula to rue missed opportunities in a closely contested encounter.
Despite the defeat, Fiji showed plenty of determination and attacking promise, and will now look to regroup and bounce back in their next World Cup match.
