Orchids put on a show at home

A four-try haul from winger Naomi Kelly led the PNG Orchids to a convincing 58-4 win over France in Port Moresby on Saturday.

Kelly's haul equalled Belinda Gwasamun's record for most tries in an international by an Orchids player which was set against Brazil at the 2022 World Cup.

In their first ever World Cup match on home soil, the Orchids made the ideal start with a try to powerful centre Relna Wuruki-Hosea in just the seventh minute.

They extended their lead in the 19th minute when back-rower Shellie Long left four defenders in her wake on a 20-metre charge to the line.

Eels speedster Fleur Ginn and centre Tia Molo then crossed in quick time to blow the scoreline out to 22-0 much to the delight of the home fans.

In the 29th minute Molo then turned provider with an overhead pass for Kelly to cross in the left-hand corner and Emily Veivers' sideline conversion made it 28-0.

Dual international Ivania Wong then showed off her speed and footwork from 40 metres out as the Orchids went to the break ahead by 32 points.

After having just 38 per cent of possession in the first half France came out firing in the second term and got on the board through fullback Manon Samarra courtesy of a great offload from Stacey Bessiere.

The Orchids' left edge clicked in the 44th minute when Kelly made it a double after slick lead-up work from Cynthiah Peters and Ginn.

Ginn, Molo and Kelly then crossed in the space of five minutes as the Orchids' superior fitness showed in the humid conditions.

Kelly finished the day with 166 run metres to go with her four-try haul, while inspirational skipper Elsie Albert got through a power of work with 154 run metres and 11 tackle breaks.

The Orchids play at home again in Round 2 when they meet Fiji while the French side travels to Christchurch to face the might of the Kiwi Ferns.