WALLAROOS FALL TO BLACK FERNS IN OPENING MATCH OF RUGBY WORLD CUP
The Wallaroos have been outclassed by the Black Ferns in their opening match of the Rugby World Cup at Eden Park, recording a 41-17 loss.
The Australian side dominated the first half of the game, scoring three tries in quick succession during the first 25 minutes.
Rugby Sevens player Bienne Terita dived over the corner to score Australia’s first try, continuing the impeccable form she showcased in Adelaide earlier this year.
Fellow Sevens injection Sharni Williams proved a welcome addition to the Wallaroos, taking the ball over the advantage countless times.
A loose ball provided the perfect opportunity for the Australian side’s second try, with Ivania Wong running 60 metres to score untouched.
To continue her side’s winning streak, Terita evaded famed New Zealand Sevens player Portia Woodman to bring Australia to a 17-0 lead after 25 minutes.
Joanah Ngan-Woo commenced the comeback for the Black Ferns, barging over the line for a try.
Four minutes later, Woodman followed suit, and Australia’s lead was reduced to 17-12 going into the break.
After half-time, Woodman crossed for a double, tying up the score.
Two Wallaroos were given yellow cards in the 53rd minute: Ivania Wong for a cynical foul, and captain Shannon Parry for a high tackle.
Down to 13 on the field, the Wallaroos were unable to prevent the Black Ferns from racing away with the game, as Awhina Tangen-Wainohu dived over the line.
Ruby Tui sealed the game for New Zealand with two late tries, before Wooden completed her hat-trick.
Though the second half proved unlucky for the Wallaroos, Jay Tregonning commended his team’s performance.
“We came into this game with the aim of trying to improve our set-piece and winning the collision battle,” the Australian coach said.
“We managed to do both those things, while also putting the pressure back on the Black Ferns.
“That pressure created some uncharacteristic errors from the New Zealand side, which gave us several opportunities to seize.
“As the game went on, we didn’t win the race to our attacking breakdown, and the Kiwis played like the formidable team they are.”
The Wallaroos will go on to play Scotland in the next round of the Rugby World Cup.
Wallaroos Rugby World Cup 2021 – Pool A Fixtures
Wallaroos v Scotland, Saturday 15 October, 1:00pm AEST at Northland Events Centre, Whangarei
Wallaroos v Wales, Saturday 22 October, 12:15pm AEST at Northland Events Centre, Whangarei
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