New Zealand crushes Ireland 40-0 in the Women’s Rugby World Cup

BRIGHTON, England – New Zealand demonstrated their might in the Women’s World Cup with a resounding 40-0 victory over Ireland on Saturday. In what was possibly the most anticipated match of the group stage, the Black Ferns lived up to expectations. Ireland, although showing spirit, could not match the level of the five-time champions. Ireland accepted New Zealand’s haka challenge, advancing before both teams faced off in a tense stare that only intensified the fervor of the Irish fans.

“The bigger they are, the harder they fall,” commented an Irish fan before the start of the match.

Irish fan

Ireland started the match with great energy, dominating the first few minutes, but failed to convert that advantage into points, allowing New Zealand to stay afloat. The Black Ferns kept their cool and scored their first try at 15 minutes. Dannah O’Brien, Ireland’s fly-half, failed to kick the ball out of the field after a penalty, and New Zealand took advantage of the opportunity. The ball reached Stacey Waaka on the right, and the outside center launched herself to score, surprising her opponent. Moments later, they scored their second try. Chryss Viliko broke through from close range after a lineout. New Zealand demonstrated why they are the masters of the World Cup, making the most of their opportunities and exerting pressure in a matter of moments. Ireland’s afternoon worsened when fullback Stacey Flood had to leave the field injured, with her right leg immobilized.

New Zealand continued to dominate the key moments. Their attack was relentless and their players incredibly fast. Braxton Sorensen-McGee, 18, added his team’s third try shortly before halftime. He received the ball 30 meters from the right touchline, beating three Irish defenders in a magnificent display of speed and skill. Similarly to the first half, Ireland performed better in the early stages of the second half, but it was New Zealand who scored first. Again, the ball moved to the right, leaving Sorensen-McGee with space to cross the scoring line. Ireland remained resilient, but failed to score points.

Ireland, despite the defeat, will be able to learn lessons from the match, but faced the relentless machine of the Black Ferns, who were simply too effective. Sorensen-McGee completed her second hat-trick in as many games with two minutes to go. This time, she slipped down the left wing after another well-worked play. The Auckland winger is quickly becoming the breakout star of the tournament. If Ireland thought it was finally over, they were wrong; New Zealand had one last play prepared. Jorja Miller broke down the right wing and passed the ball to Maia Joseph, who scored after 80 minutes. More ruthlessness from the Kiwis and another conversion from Renee Holmes took the score to 40-0.