The spirit of Anzac was alive and well on the rugby league field, but it was the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) who claimed bragging rights, overcoming a fierce start from their Australian counterparts to win the annual Trans-Tasman clash 16-8.
The annual match, traditionally hosted by the ADF in Sydney, builds on the historically close relationship, enhancing South Pacific regional partnerships through the common love of sport.
ADF team captain Able Seaman Connor McCabe said: "Anzac Day is a massive occasion for us and being able to have three services together and play against a Kiwi side is an unreal opportunity."
Despite the hard-charging style of the Australian forwards, the Kiwis' pace and second-half composure proved decisive.
Early in the game, the Australians exploded out of the gates, intent on asserting dominance early.
An uncharacteristic Kiwi error in the corner gifted possession to the home side, and Leading Aircraftman Izak Ford crossed for the opening try.
But Sergeant Joel Munro's conversion attempt fell away, leaving the score at 4-0.
'Anzac Day is a massive occasion for us and being able to have three services together and play against a Kiwi side is an unreal opportunity.'
The ADF side struck again shortly after with a well-worked set piece, allowing Leading Aircraftman Daniel Higham to cross the line, extending the lead to 8-0.
But the Kiwis began to find their rhythm with a brilliant 40/20 kick from five-eighth, Leading Aircraftman Dante Henry, that swung momentum and field position back in their favour.
Capitalising on the opportunity, Sergeant Tevita Faukafa found space out wide to score in the corner, reducing the deficit.
Just before halftime, a high shot on Kiwi player Lance Corporal Tama Toa Ropati resulted in a penalty right in front and NZDF opted for the two points, narrowing the gap to 8-6.
The second half saw a significant momentum shift.
Errors began to creep into the Australians' game, forcing them into long periods of defence on their own line.
The relentless Kiwi pressure eventually told.
A clever grubber kick from Able Seaman Fred Faamita wrong-footed the scrambling Aussie defence, allowing his winger, Private Mahaki Wilson, to pounce on the rolling ball for a try in the corner.
The conversion was unsuccessful but the Kiwis edged ahead for the first time, 10-8.
With just one minute left on the clock, Leading Aircraftman Dante Henry capped off a superb individual performance with a perfectly weighted kick that sat up beautifully for Lance Corporal Ropati to gather and score under the posts.
An easy conversion confirmed the final score at 16-8.
While the Australian forwards battled valiantly, the Kiwis' ability to absorb early pressure, minimise errors in the second half, and execute key plays with pace proved the difference.
The Anzac Day Defence Force trophy now heads back across the Tasman.
Petty Officer Kauri Harema debuted in 2024 alongside his brother Kaleb, and this year was New Zealand team captain.
Growing up with serving parents, he remembered Anzac Day had always been important to his Whanau.
"Being on the field as that last try was scored by Lance Corporal Ropati was huge sense of relief," Petty Officer Harema said.
"We had 11 debutants this year and they have worked really hard, so coming away with the win and taking the trophy home means a lot."
