Dream Debut: Caitlyn Halse Shines at the World Cup
The young prospect Caitlyn Halse, only 18 years old, described her World Cup debut as “surreal” and “amazing” after Australia’s resounding victory over Samoa with a score of 73-0.
Halse, originally from Picton, New South Wales, became the youngest Australian player to participate in a Women’s Rugby World Cup. She marked her debut with two impressive tries in a historic victory for the Wallaroos.
With 11 international matches under his belt before the tournament, Halse aimed to be part of the World Cup squad from the beginning of 2024, a dream that came true at the Salford Stadium.
I’d say it’s surreal. I’ve never played in a stadium with so many fans watching me.
After being selected for the team, Halse worked hard to get to this moment. “Being here is simply amazing,” she added.
Despite the pressure exerted by Samoa, especially in the second half, the Wallaroos managed to keep their goal at zero. Halse highlighted the team’s resilience, which gives them confidence for the crucial match against the United States next week.
“It was an 80-minute match, Samoa is very tough and had many opportunities, but we stopped them. We can take a lot of confidence from that,” Halse stated.
“The United States will be tough. More tactical than Samoa, but they will be in it for the 80 minutes and I think we have to stick to what we do well.”
When Australia deployed its offensive game, it proved unstoppable, with Halse’s brace and Desiree Miller’s hat-trick in the first half, demonstrating what they are capable of when they move the ball.
Alongside right-winger Maya Stewart, they form a back line capable of scoring many points, despite the injury absence of sevens star Charlotte Caslick before leaving Australia.
“Unfortunately, we lost Charlotte before the tournament due to an ankle injury, but we have great finishers like Desiree and Maya, and myself today,” commented Halse.
“We have strong backs, so we hope to keep building on that and put the ball in their hands a little more.”
