New Zealand legend Kieran Foran has recovered from a heart-sinking moment to end his playing career on a triumphant note as the Kiwis outlasted Samoa 36-14 to win the Pacific Championships final at CommBank Stadium on Sunday.

Foran, the 35-year-old playmaker, announced recently he was hanging up the boots after 17 seasons and 318 games in the NRL, and has accepted a position with Manly as an assistant coach.

After Jahrome Hughes was ruled out of the tournament with injury, Foran jumped at the chance of a swansong with the Kiwis.

Appearing in his 34th Test, his hopes of a fairytale farewell appeared on thin ice midway through the first half when he threw a pass that gifted Samoa an intercept try and left the Kiwis trailing 12-0.

But New Zealand held their nerve to power home in the seco

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