The Fiji Bulikula produced a courageous performance in their Rugby League World Cup semi-final, pushing defending champions Australia all the way before eventually falling 30-14 at Allianz Stadium.

Making their World Cup debut, the Bulikula stunned the star-studded Jillaroos with an outstanding first-half display that had the defending champions under immense pressure.

Fiji drew first blood in the 12th minute when five-eighth Luisa Yaranamua slotted a penalty goal to hand her side a 2-0 lead, marking the first time since the 2013 World Cup Final that Australia had failed to score first in a Test match.

The Bulikula continued to pile on the pressure and were rewarded when Yaranamua powered over from dummy-half before converting her own try to extend Fiji’s advantage to 8-0.

Australia eventually responded through winger Abbi Church before Tamika Upton crossed to level the score at 8-8 heading into halftime. However, Fiji had their chances to reclaim the lead late in the opening spell and headed to the sheds having matched the world champions in every aspect.

The Jillaroos found another gear after the break, with Church grabbing three second-half tries to finish with four for the match. Australia also benefited from strong performances by captain Isabelle Kelly and back-rower Olivia Kernick, whose metres and work rate helped swing momentum in the champions’ favour.

Despite trailing 24-8 midway through the second half, the Bulikula refused to back down. Yaranamua produced a superb pass to send Maria Paseka over on the right edge, reducing the deficit and giving Fiji renewed hope.

With Fiji threatening a remarkable comeback, Church sealed the result with an 80-metre intercept-style effort, sprinting away to score her fourth try of the afternoon.

While Australia progressed to a World Cup Final showdown against New Zealand, Fiji won widespread admiration for a fearless display that showcased the growth of women’s rugby league in the Pacific.

Yaranamua was instrumental throughout, while outside backs Cassie Staples and Paseka stood tall on the big stage as the Bulikula proved they belong among the world’s elite nations.

The 30-14 scoreline ultimately did not reflect how fiercely Fiji challenged the reigning champions, with the Bulikula leaving Sydney with their heads held high after one of the most spirited performances of their historic World Cup campaign.