THE Halliwell Jones Stadium boasted a carnival-esque atmosphere as Warrington played host to its first Rugby League World Cup quarter final on Sunday.

Toa Samoa failed to impress on the day, with Fiji left celebrating come the final hooter, but it was the town’s adopted nation who received a rapturous applause following their war dance after a build-up of cheerleading, choirs and schoolchildren – many of whom the Samoans had visited during their stay.

Fiji replied with a prayer song – a war cry of their own, readying themselves for the big hits anticipated.

Unfortunately for Samoa their biggest blow came from an early Fijian try, man of the match Aaron Groom, of Asquith Magpies, collecting from Newcastle Knights’ Akuila Uate to wriggle between the posts.

Penrith Panthers’ Waisale Ligani Naiqama added the extras and his assured boot did nothing to harm Fiji’s ascent all afternoon, adding a penalty to increase their lead.

Despite the 12,766-strong crowd witnessing their honorary nation go behind, a pocket of school kids in the Martin Dawes Stand were determined to boost Samoa’s charge.

However, their relentless chanting was only answered by further Fiji pressure, quick hands, penetrating breaks and a sense of purpose.

Billed as the visiting side, Fiji’s explosive runners were winning over the Warrington faithful, who were on their feet applauding as the Bati increased their advantage, North Queensland Cowboys’ Antonio Winterstein losing his footing and Groom’s grubber landing in the arms of Naiqama.

Samoa were victorious in the nations’ only previous meeting in 2008, but seemed laboured and even with giant St Helens-bound Mose Masoe’s arrival they failed to reply before the break.

Juniors from several clubs showed their future World Cup credentials at half time, however it took almost an hour before Samoa themselves had the crowd on their feet.

A rare foray towards the Fijian line resulted in Winterstein diving in from close range, at the very least sparking a Mexican wave.

After another Naiqama penalty, Cronulla’s Vitale Junior Roqica tied things up with an impressive dart from close range.

Following a huge hit on Groom referee Richard Silverwood acted to diffuse a 26-man brawl, but come the hooter the sides were huddled together in prayer – a humbling moment as the crowd fell silent and a mark of respect typifying the spirit of Rugby League World Cup 2013.