The Australian Wallaroos demonstrated their skill and strategy in a dominating 43-7 victory over the Vodafone Fijiana XV in Suva on Saturday evening, marking a historic moment as it was the first time the Wallaroos played in Fiji. Despite a small crowd, this test match was crucial for both teams as they prepare for the upcoming Rugby World Cup scheduled from August 22 to September 27 in England.
Fiji opened the scoring with a try by captain Alfreda Fisher, who became the youngest captain of the women’s national rugby team, showing her leadership and determination from the outset. However, the Wallaroos quickly responded and took control of the game, with halfback Layne Morgan playing a pivotal role in orchestrating the pace and flow.
Bienne Terita, an Australian 7s star, was instrumental in the first half, scoring two tries, while Eva Karpani added further impact to the Wallaroos’ offense after coming on in the first half. The loose trio of Ashley Masters, Siokapesi Palu, and Tabua Tuinakauvadra also excelled, providing a solid front against the Fijiana’s defense.
Despite the loss, the Fijiana team showcased some positives. Jade Coates made significant contributions with robust tackles and solid support play. However, the team struggled with handling errors, which hindered their efforts to sustain momentum against the Wallaroos.
Captain Siokapesi Palu acknowledged the challenges posed by the Fijiana, stating, “It’s a mindset game,” emphasizing their ability to build confidence and exploit opportunities as the match progressed. Fijiana head coach Ioan Cunningham expressed pride in his team’s determination and highlighted areas for improvement, specifically regarding game management and execution.
The Fijiana XV is set to host the Oceania Women’s Rugby Tournament in Sigatoka from June 6-14, where they will face off against Tonga and Samoa, providing them with crucial competitive experience. Meanwhile, the Wallaroos are gearing up for their Pacific Four Series campaign, set to kick off next week against the New Zealand Black Ferns, reinforcing their commitment to consistent growth and performance in women’s rugby.
The match not only serves as a stepping stone for both teams toward future competitions but also embodies the spirit of resilience and progress in women’s rugby in the region. The continued support from fans and the dedication shown by both teams showcase a hopeful outlook for women’s rugby in Fiji and Australia alike.
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