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Canada Defeats Australia in Pacific Four Series
Canada secured a 33-14 victory over Australia in the Pacific Four Series, propelling the Canadian women up to the No. 3 spot in the World Rugby rankings. The match showcased stellar performances from front-rowers Sara Cline and McKinley Hunt, who scored two tries each and played a pivotal role in Canada’s dominance on the field at Allianz Stadium.
Canadian Women’s Dominance
The Canadian team’s performance in the tournament has been impressive, following a commanding 50-7 win over the United States in the opening match. This recent victory against Australia solidified Canada’s position in the elite division of the WXV competition, set to be hosted in Vancouver later this year from September 27 to October 13.
Canada’s success has raised the team’s ranking above France, positioning them as a formidable contender in international women’s rugby. The team is set to face off against the reigning champions, New Zealand, in an upcoming match on May 19 in Christchurch that will determine the winner of the Pacific Four Series.
Notable Performances and Milestones
The match also saw standout performances from Canada’s captain, Sophie de Goede, who contributed four conversions to the team’s victory. Additionally, Tyson Beukeboom earned her 67th cap, equalling the record held by Rugby Canada Hall of Famer Gillian Florence. Centre Alex Tessier reached a milestone of her own by earning her 50th cap, joining an elite group of Canadian women in the sport.
Canada’s dominant display was evident in the driving maul, with Cline showcasing her try-scoring prowess. Coach Kevin Rouet commended the team’s forward pack for their strength around the breakdown, emphasizing the importance of showcasing this skill against formidable opponents.
Team Effort and Future Prospects
De Goede highlighted the collective effort of the team, praising the backs for setting up scoring opportunities for the forwards. The comprehensive team performance was lauded by the coach and players alike, underscoring the unity and skill displayed by the Canadian women’s team.
Looking ahead, Canada’s victory sets the stage for a compelling WXV 1 competition, where they will face stiff competition from top-ranked teams such as England, France, and Ireland. The team’s strong showing in the Pacific Four Series bodes well for their prospects in the upcoming elite tournament.
Canada’s win against Australia marks a significant milestone in their rugby journey, solidifying their reputation as a rising force in women’s international rugby. The team’s continued success and resilience on the field signify promising prospects for Canadian women’s rugby on the global stage.
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