Canada advances to the Women’s Rugby World Cup semi-finals after defeating Australia
Canada secured their place in the semi-finals of the Women’s Rugby World Cup, where they will face New Zealand, after a resounding victory over Australia with a score of 46-5 in Bristol on Saturday.
Canada’s dominant performance in the first half was key to their advance in this quarter-final match, while the second 40 minutes unfolded under heavy rain.
After watching New Zealand’s Black Ferns overcome a difficult test against South Africa in Exeter, Canada delivered an efficient performance against the Wallaroos, scoring seven tries in the process, to join them in next Friday’s semi-final.
Canada’s tries demonstrated their versatile attack, combining quick passes in the back line with the necessary strength to advance directly when needed. For Australia, this result marks the end of their participation in the World Cup.In what was coach Jo Yapp’s last match in charge of the team, Australia gave it their all in the quarter-finals, but could not match Canada’s speed and ability to quickly change the direction of the attack.
The favorites dominated the first 40 minutes, demonstrating why Canada is ranked second in the world in this sport.
Although Desiree Miller scored for Australia, Canada maintained control of the match. They scored five tries in the first half and had another two disallowed, demonstrating Canadian superiority.
Asia Hogan-Rochester opened the scoring for Canada at two minutes, followed by Miller’s try for Australia. However, Canada was in control of the match.
With a quick ruck speed, Alysha Corrigan scored twice, while Sophie de Goede, Player of the Match, and McKinley Hunt also achieved tries, establishing a score of 31-5 at halftime.
Australia came out with determination in the second half, but their ball game was unstable, sapping their momentum in the rain. Canada showed greater precision in the adverse conditions, with Fabiola Forteza scoring a try.
While the public sought shelter, both teams struggled with ball handling. Australia found a bit more rhythm, but Canada’s defense held firm, preserving their lead.
With both teams making changes and the result defined, the pace of the match slowed. Canada chose to add points with a penalty eight minutes from the end, converted by Alex Tessier.
Karen Paquin, 38, secured Canada’s victory with an impressive individual run, scoring a sensational try.
This result secures Canada its sixth participation in a World Cup semi-final.
