New Zealand’s Black Ferns Dominate Australia in Historic Anzac Test
New Zealand’s Black Ferns have continued their unbeaten streak with a commanding 40-5 victory over Australia’s Wallaroos on the Sunshine Coast. This impressive win extended their record to 30-0 against the Wallaroos and saw them retain the O’Reilly Cup. The match, which was the first-ever trans-Tasman Anzac Test between women’s teams, drew a crowd of 5,508 despite challenging weather conditions.
Winger Ayesha Leti-I’iga played a key role in the game, scoring a double in the first half that set the tone for a dominant performance. The Black Ferns secured six tries to one, showcasing their superior skill and strategy. Captain Siokapesi Palu Sekona, who was born in New Zealand, scored Australia’s only try of the match.
“We’re disappointed, we came with a game plan and we did that but we’ve just got to give credit to New Zealand, they’re a world class team for a reason,” Palu Sekona said after the match. She also highlighted the significance of playing an historic Test match on Anzac Day, calling it a thrilling experience to honor the country that those before them fought for.
The Black Ferns’ victory marked a hat-trick of wins and added two trophies to their collection following their success in the Pacific Four Series. The win also reinforced their position as one of the top teams in the world, with the team rising to No.2 in the rankings behind England.
A Strong Start for Whitney Hansen’s Coaching Era
Whitney Hansen’s coaching era has started on a high note, with the Black Ferns backing up their previous success against Canada. The team’s strong performance in the United States, where they faced challenging weather conditions, has helped build confidence ahead of the Anzac Test. Despite heavy rain during the second half of the match, the Black Ferns maintained their composure and executed their game plan effectively.
Their scrum and lineout were particularly effective, providing a solid foundation for their attacking plays. Wins over the United States and Canada, especially the latter after a painful World Cup semi-final defeat, have further boosted the team’s morale.
Key Performers and Highlights
Centre Amy du Plessis was a standout performer throughout the tournament, demonstrating both defensive strength and attacking flair. She opened the scoring in the fourth minute, setting the tone for the team’s successful campaign. Leti-I’iga added a welcome double before halftime, while reserve prop Veisinia Mahutariki-Fakalelu secured the win with a try early in the second half.
Looking Ahead to the Next Match
The two teams will face off again in August to conclude the two-Test series following their respective domestic club seasons. This upcoming match will provide an opportunity for the Wallaroos to regroup and improve upon their performance in the Anzac Test. Meanwhile, the Black Ferns will continue to build on their momentum as they prepare for future international competitions.
