Tonga has thrashed Papua New Guinea 47-14 in Port Moresby to remain in the hunt for a 2003 Rugby World Cup berth.
The victory means Tonga has only to beat Papua New Guinea in the second leg on Saturday in Nuku'Alofa, or lose by no more than 32 points, to progress to a home and away series against Korea.
The winner of the subsequent series involving Korea will advance to the World Cup - and Pool D along with New Zealand, Wales, Italy and Canada - as Repechage 2 champion.