The Wallaroos showcased their prowess by defeating the Vodafone Fijiana XV with a commanding score of 43-7 in their Test match held at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. This match was marked by the Wallaroos’ strategic gameplay, which allowed them to secure their fourth consecutive win against the Fijiana XV.
The Fijiana XV, captained by Alfreda Fisher, initially took the lead with a try at the seventh minute, followed by a conversion by Luisa Tisolo. However, the Australians quickly responded, with Caitlyn Halse scoring in the 10th minute and Faitala Moleka converting the try. The Wallaroos maintained momentum, scoring additional tries throughout the match, including efforts from Bienne Terita and captain Siokapesi Palu, which allowed them to establish a substantial lead by halftime at 31-7.
In the second half, the Wallaroos continued to dominate with additional tries from Layrne Morgan and Tania Naden. Notably, the match statistics indicated that the Fijiana XV struggled with missed tackles and turnovers, making 31 missed tackles compared to the Wallaroos’ 13, which further underscored the visitors’ control over the game.
This defeat follows a significant previous match where the Fijiana XV also suffered at the hands of the Wallaroos, losing 64-5 in Sydney. Coach Ioan Cunningham acknowledged the ongoing challenges his team has faced against their Australian counterparts, emphasizing the need for improvement in areas such as possession and discipline.
Despite the defeat, there remains a hopeful outlook for the Fijiana XV. The experience gained in such high-stakes matches can serve as a valuable lesson as they prepare for future competitions, including aspirations for the Rugby Women’s World Cup in 2025. The continued support from fans and the determination displayed by the players highlight the evolving landscape of women’s rugby in Fiji, fostering a sense of resilience and the potential for future successes on the international stage.
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