International Women’s Rugby Match Highlights
The conclusion of the year saw exhilarating performances in several international women’s rugby matches. Australia bid farewell to two players while securing a win against Scotland; Canada overcame world champions England for the second time within a week; New Zealand celebrated their milestone 150th Test match with a victory over France. Ireland held off a strong challenge from South Africa, and the USA achieved a historic victory over Italy, marking their fifth consecutive win.
Match Summaries
AUS vs. SCOT: Australia Triumphs 38-31
In a competitive clash, Australia emerged victorious against Scotland with a score of 38-31. The match was poignant as it marked the farewell of players Cecilia Smith and Emily Chancellor. Australia quickly gained momentum when Amelia Whitaker scored the first try, successfully converted by Samantha Wood. Scotland responded with their first try from captain Rachel Malcolm, followed by a series of determined plays that led them to a temporary lead at halftime.
Despite losing two players to the sin-bin, Scotland showcased resilience by scoring from driving mauls. However, the Wallaroos capitalized upon Scottish errors in the second half, reclaiming the lead and solidifying their advantage with strategic plays. Despite a late effort from Scotland to even the score, Australia held firm, ensuring a win and extending their streak.
CAN vs. ENG: Canada Upsets England 31-22
In a thrilling encounter, Canada defeated England 31-22 at TD Place Stadium, marking a successful end to their test season. Canada initially struggled, with England drawing first blood through Maddie Feaunati’s try. However, Canada struck back swiftly with two tries from Julia Omokhuale and Sophie de Goede, taking a significant lead by halftime.
England attempted a comeback, narrowing the score with a penalty and a try from Amy Cokayne. Yet, Canada showcased their strength and discipline, countering England’s momentum with tries from DaLeaka Menin and Savannah Bauder, securing their second victory over the world champions in less than a week.
NZ vs. FRA: New Zealand Claims Victory 31-12
New Zealand honored their 150th test match with a commanding 31-12 victory over France, who were playing their 300th international. The game started with France taking an early lead but was quickly balanced by New Zealand’s Mererangi Paul. After a tense back-and-forth, the Black Ferns capitalized on a breakthrough with Braxton Sorensen-McGee delivering a stunning 75-meter try that showcased her exceptional talent.
New Zealand proved decisive with rapid scoring, pulling ahead decisively in the final moments of the match. France’s attempts to close the gap were thwarted, as New Zealand sealed a commendable win to celebrate their milestone test match.
WAL vs. JPN: Wales Dominates 17-0
Japan’s 100th test was a challenging affair as Wales kept them scoreless, finishing the match at 17-0. Initial opportunities arose for both teams in adverse weather conditions, yet Wales gained control towards the latter stages of the first half with a try from Seren Lockwood.
Kelsey Jones showcased her efforts with a try in the 65th minute, followed by Lockwood securing her second try late in the match. Despite Japan’s strong attempts, particularly from debutant Savannah Bodman, Wales held fast, completing a strong defensive performance.
IRE vs. RSA: Ireland Edges South Africa 40-27
In a tightly contested match, Ireland defeated South Africa 40-27, showcasing resilience after facing early adversities. Ireland struck first with an early try from Aoife Dalton, but the hosts responded quickly, leveraging their momentum to lead 17-21 at halftime.
After regrouping at the break, Ireland scored twice more to secure their lead. South Africa’s efforts yielded solid tries but proved insufficient to counter Ireland’s persistent attack, resulting in Ireland clinching their second win of the WXV Global Series campaign.
USA vs. ITA: USA Reigns Supreme 54-24
The USA achieved an emphatic 54-24 victory over Italy in Nashville, marking an impressive fifth consecutive win. Italy opened the scoring, yet the USA responded with four tries before halftime, showcasing power and efficiency across the park, including a hat-trick performance from Freda Tafuna.
After the break, the USA maintained control, steadily extending their lead. Despite Italy’s late attempts to score, it was clear the USA had established their dominance, triumphing in front of a home crowd and underscoring their development in women’s rugby.
