Women’s Rugby World Cup: Australia vs. England, South Africa Surprises and More

Summary of Week 2 of the Women’s Rugby World Cup: Excitement and Surprises

The second week of the Women’s Rugby World Cup gave us an epic encounter between Australia and the United States, which ended in a 31-31 tie. In addition, South Africa surprised by defeating Italy.

Now, there is only one spot available for the quarterfinals, which will be contested by Australia and the United States. England, Scotland, Canada, New Zealand, Ireland, France, and South Africa have already secured their place.

The uncertainty about the matchups in the next round increases the anticipation for the final week of competition.

Australia vs. United States: A Duel with Clear Implications

The draw between Australia and the United States raised doubts about the possibilities of both teams. However, the rules are clear. The United States needs a bonus-point win against Samoa to have a chance of advancing. Australia, for its part, qualifies if it gets a bonus point, regardless of the United States’ result. If Australia loses without obtaining a bonus point and the United States achieves theirs, the point difference will be the deciding factor.

Desiree Miller will be crucial for Australia, who needs four tries against England.

The Pressure on Australia and the Challenge against England

Australia is under pressure and needs to get a good result against England to secure its qualification. The challenge is great, as England is a relentless team.

Ilona Maher: A Prominent Figure in the Tournament

Ilona Maher, after a good performance in the first match against England, stood out again against Australia. Her aggressive play, with powerful runs and recoveries in the breakdown, earned her three turnovers.

Ilona Maher won three turnovers for the United States against Australia

We were at the game, and then we got ahead, and then they scored again. There was disappointment because we had it, but mistakes happened.

Ilona Maher

The English Selection Dilemma

England prefers not to talk about two different starting teams, but it is likely that 14 of the 15 starting players in the qualifiers will be the same. The team that played against the United States will likely lead England in the tournament.

John Mitchell, the coach, argues that the selections are based on accumulated knowledge since he took office in May 2023, as well as current performance. The key decision is who will play on the wing, with Jess Breach and Claudia Moloney-Macdonald as options. Mitchell will have to decide who to put on the wings for the match against Australia.

South Africa Makes History

South Africa made history by qualifying for the playoffs for the first time, after defeating Italy 29-24.

South Africa was thrilled after the victory over Italy. The team will face France to define the first place in Group D.

Portia Woodman-Wickliffe: New Zealand’s New Historic Scorer

Portia Woodman-Wickliffe became the top try scorer in New Zealand history, surpassing Doug Howlett’s record. Woodman-Wickliffe, who returned from retirement, is seeking his third consecutive world title.

The Future of Women’s Rugby: Young Prospects Shine

Caitlyn Halse and Braxton Sorensen-McGee, young talents from Australia and New Zealand respectively, have stood out in the tournament.

Braxton Sorensen-McGee scored a hat-trick against Japan. Halse, nicknamed ‘The Kid’, has been key for Australia with four tries. Sorensen-McGee has become an offensive threat for the Black Ferns.

Highlights: South Africa’s Historic Moment

South Africa’s historic moment in qualifying for the playoffs.