New Zealand is pretty good at rugby. That is clear. The Black Ferns showed why they’re one of the top teams as they finished the 2022 Pacific Four Series undefeated. They are still the second-ranked team in the world as we inch closer to the 2021 Rugby World Cup in the fall.
As for the remaining teams, there are plenty of positive things to takeaway. I go through each team and look at what’s next for each country following the series.
New Zealand Wins and Wins Big
The Black Ferns finished with three significant victories at the Pacific Four Series. First, they took down their rivals Australia 23-10, then shut out Canada 28-0 and crushed the US 50-6. Three victories with a combined score of 101-16. Pretty darn good.
Leading the way for the Black Ferns was wing Ayesha Leti-l’iga. She scored five tries in the series, including a hat trick in the final game against the US. Leti-l’iga is one of the top wingers in women’s rugby, and she showed why in the Pacific Four series.
New Zealand will play two more friendlies with Australia before the Rugby World Cup. This team can beat you in multiple ways, using power, speed, or passing. So, while the Black Ferns use those friendlies to sharpen their skills, don’t be surprised to see the host nation ready to play at the biggest tournament of the year.
Canada Goes to New Zealand and Plays Hard
Meanwhile, it was a strong effort from the girls in red and white. They showed great skill in wins over Australia and the US while playing New Zealand hard despite getting shut out. With this performance, Canada is letting the world know they are here to play.
The name to know from Team Canada is forward Sophie de Goede. She was Canada’s best player all series, making 5/8 conversions, nailing one penalty kick, and was named Player of the Match twice. In addition, de Goede is coming off winning the U SPORTS Women’s Rugby Player of the Year for his efforts with Queen’s University. That is to say, she is making an impact everywhere she goes.
Canada is hosting fellow World Cup teams Italy and Wales in friendly matches this summer. Those games will help fine-tune Canada’s performance before returning to New Zealand in October. It’s an opportunity for Canadian fans to come out and support their team, so don’t miss out!
Room to Improve for the US
The Americans were already a step behind before the series began. Two top players, Alev Kelter and Kate Zackary, missed the first game as they finished the Premier 15s season with their club teams. As a result, they dropped their opening game to Canada handily.
However, their next game against Australia was more promising. Gabby Cantorna nailed three penalty kicks while Hope Rogers scored the only try as the US held on to win 16-13. Although they blew a 13-point halftime lead, the Americans left that game feeling inspired by how they finished. That is until they battled New Zealand, and lost without scoring a try in the contest.
So, what does this all mean for the US? To be truthful, probably not a whole lot. They are a good team that will likely make the quarterfinals at the Rugby World Cup. However, they haven’t announced their summer match schedule yet and will need all the opportunities they can get to play. In short, there’s a lot to like about this team, but I have my concerns.
Australia Leaves New Zealand Down But Not Out
Before the series, I mentioned how the Wallaroos have never beaten Canada, the US, or New Zealand in any international match. Yet, there is still a lot to like about this team. They never gave up, always competed to the final whistle, and nearly upset the Americans in their second game.
Their biggest star was Lori Cramer, who went 4/4 on conversions and made two penalties. The former sevens star is one of my favorite players in women’s rugby today, and she put on a show for the Wallaroos. Also, shoutout to Ashley Marsters as she scored two tries for Australia in the series.
Again, Australia plays New Zealand twice in summer internationals before the World Cup. They’ll also be in Pool A against the Black Ferns, Wales, and Scotland. I’m excited to see what improvements they’ll make for the tournament as they’re a dark horse team. Certainly, there’s a lot to be excited about if you’re a Wallaroos fan.
Ready for Summer Rugby Season
There are going to be some great matches in store this summer. Hopefully, I’ll be in Langford for Canada’s game against Italy on July 24 and provide coverage as we inch closer to the World Cup. Buckle up and get ready for some exciting rugby action!