The Black Ferns’ dream of a seventh Rugby World Cup title has been shattered by an outstanding Canada side in Bristol this morning.
The world No 2 Canadians were supreme in attack and defence to win 34-19 to reach just their second women’s World Cup final at Twickenham next weekend.
The Black Ferns’ reign as world champions came to a thudding halt after scrambling to mount a comeback in the final quarter, but they went down to their first loss in a World Cup knockout match in 34 years.
The desperation factor accelerated as Canada were pinned in their 22 for spells in a tense finale.
However, the heartbroken Black Ferns ran out of ideas and won’t make it a hat-trick of world titles in England. Instead, the dreaded third-place playoff in London’s famous venue awaits.
Coach Allan Bunting watched the troubles of his tenure unfold in their ultimate test. At times, they were rabbits in headlights in their biggest game since their magical World Cup success on home soil in 2022.
The Black Ferns were impeded by their poor discipline, Canada’s brutal defence and slack kicking in play which couldn’t give them a route away from their own half. They weren’t awarded a penalty until the 61st minute.
Canada’s set piece was far superior and their pack was led wonderfully by enterprising lock Sophie de Goede, with halfback Justine Pelletier an excellent orchestrator for their ruthless attack.
De Goede booted an important late penalty goal to seal one of their greatest victories for a side who aren’t full-time like the Black Ferns, as they had to look for resources via a crowdfunding campaign.
But the Black Ferns had no answer in a milestone 50th test for leader Ruahei Demant, who was helpless to stop Canada from exerting their unerring physical dominance on the Black Ferns’ forwards.
No 8 Kaipo Olsen-Baker was their best in driving their fightback and midfielder Sylvia Brunt looked forceful with carries that punched holes in Canada’s wall of white jerseys.
The absence of Jorja Miller at openside flanker was felt because they were lacking a sharp edge when stretching the Canadian defence.
Canada’s lineout drive and speed to every ruck gave them the platform to nullify New Zealand.
The Canadians were undeterred. They regained control to head into halftime with an imposing, deserved 24-7 lead.
The Black Ferns will have to get up for the bronze final at Twickenham next Saturday night while Canada can dream of winning their first women’s World Cup.
[Source: Stuff.co]
