Malie Sharks made history when they defeated Marist Saints in a nail-biting final of the National Rugby League Championship 24 - 22 at the Taula Vaiala Stadium on Saturday.

This is the first time the Sharks have won the rugby league title. They secured the win with a try at the final second of the match. It was a tight match as the teams went into half-time, 8 - 8. 

Sapati Talau, the captain of Malie Sharks said he was very proud of his team's achievements. 

"This is the first time we are champions of the 13 aside tournament. We did not put that much effort into our preparations coming into the final today. But just want to thank our village Malie for their support, it's been a successful journey," he said. 

"I am 40 this year, it is my first time to captain our team and probably the last. I want to retire and allow our young ones to play." 

Marist skipper Holly Pesamino believes his team did their best but it was just Malie's time to shine in this year's tournament. He said he was still proud of his team and their performance.

"Glory goes back to God for the strength and talent. But also big thank you to my team, they've done incredibly well. It wasn't an easy game as you've seen the win was snatched from us in the last minute," he said. 

"But shoutout to Malie Sharks for the win, it is a testament that rugby league is improving in Samoa. Hats off to my team as always."

Both teams needed to work on their discipline as a scuffle almost broke out in the first half of the match. Next up on the calendar for Rugby League Samoa is the Island of Origin.