Canada announced their dominance as serious contenders at the Women’s Rugby World Cup with a stunning performance against Australia in Bristol, setting the stage for a captivating semi-final clash against reigning champions New Zealand. Ranked number two globally, Canada, who utilized a crowdfunded initiative titled ‘Mission: Win Rugby World Cup’ to support their tournament preparations, exhibited an irresistible display, scoring five tries in the first half alone.
Australia, despite having a promising start against England in their recent pool-stage match in Brighton, fell behind after just two minutes. Canadian flanker Caroline Crossley initiated the scoring by cruising through Australia’s defense, followed by wing Asia Hogan-Rochester sprinting in effortlessly. This blend of physical forward play and agile backs, complemented by exceptional handling skills, left the Wallaroos without a solution.
Canada’s swift ruck play, which was the fastest among all teams during the pool stages, maintained a relentless tempo thwarting any chance for Australia, coached by former England captain Jo Yapp, to settle in defense. Sophie de Goede, back in action after recovering from a knee injury, coordinated brilliantly with Crossley and center Florence Symonds before winger Alysha Corrigan delivered an impressive one-handed try 13 minutes into the game.
Before half-time, de Goede scored around the fringe, Corrigan added her second, and prop McKinley Hunt completed a well-executed line-out move, giving Canada a formidable 31-5 lead at the break. Australia could only manage a solitary early breakaway try through Desiree Miller in the first half.
In the second half, Canada extended their lead with Fabiola Forteza’s try within minutes. Despite Australia’s efforts, including the presence of USA center Ilona Maher, a social media sensation in the stands, the Canadian team continued to dominate. Flanker Karen Paquin scored late in the game, ensuring Canada exceeded the margin England achieved against Australia last weekend.
Canada’s victory puts them on a collision course with New Zealand in the semi-final. The Canadian team, having reached the World Cup final only once, losing to England in 2014, seems poised to go further. Should both teams advance, Canada could face a potential final against England, offering them a chance for redemption. However, first, they must defeat New Zealand in the upcoming semi-final at Ashton Gate.
Canada’s electrifying performance and the upcoming match against New Zealand set the stage for what promises to be an exhilarating and noteworthy chapter in the women’s rugby arena.
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