Open Trans-Tasman Series: Day 1 Results

The 2025 Open Trans-Tasman Series (OTTS) tapped off yesterday afternoon in Christchurch, New Zealand in the first international Touch event since last year’s FIT World Cup. The first Tests played in New Zealand since 2018, the Athelite Australian Emus and Touch Blacks faced off in Mixed, Women’s, and Men’s Open games in the first match of a best-of-three series – with Australia victorious in the Women’s and Men’s to open their account.

The Mixed Open division began proceedings in the OTTS, with the Touch Blacks claiming the first victory in a close-fought 8-7 encounter. The Kiwis started strong with a 5-3 scoreline at halftime, courtesy of a sparkling opening stint from Jordan Tuakana-Hudson. A double to debuting winger Tiana Tiro ensured New Zealand the win despite the Australians’ best efforts – including a double to Zachary Bouzounis.

It was a debutant’s game in the Women’s Open with New Zealand’s Kaitlyn McIntosh making strong defensive reads in the early exchanges. A positive attacking display from Sharni Vilila gave New Zealand a hat-trick on debut – but was outdone by Caitlyn Blade and Olivia Goodsell from the Emus who combined for five tries to give the Australians a 7-4 win in their opening game.

The Touch Blacks shot out of the blocks early in the Men’s Open with Ifor Jones weaving his magic with the ball in hand, setting up tries and scoring himself. The Australians survived the opening blows before running away from the contest thanks to a double to Kai Simbolon, who made his Men’s Open debut after previously featuring for the Mixed side. A few consolations to the Kiwis painted a final 8-5 scoreline with Australia ultimately claiming the win.

If you missed the action, all 2025 Open Trans-Tasman Series footage and livestreams can be accessed via the Touch New Zealand YouTube channel.

Day 1 Results

Mixed Open – Touch Blacks 8 defeated Athelite Australian Emus 7

Women’s Open – Athelite Australian Emus 7 defeated Touch Blacks 4

Men’s Open – Athelite Australian Emus 8 defeated Touch Blacks 5

Open Trans-Tasman Series Standings

Mixed Open – Athelite Australian Emus 0-1 Touch Blacks

Women’s Open – Athelite Australian Emus 1-0 Touch Blacks

Men’s Open – Athelite Australian Emus 1-0 Touch Blacks