Australia's Wallaroos suffered a heavy 40-5 defeat to the New Zealand Black Ferns in their Pacific Four Series clash at Sunshine Coast Stadium on Saturday, April 25.
The match, the first Test between the two sides played on Anzac Day, saw New Zealand dominate from the outset.
Match Summary
New Zealand crossed for six tries, with Ayesha Leti-I'iga scoring a double. Further tries came from Amy du Plessis, Liana Mahutariki-Fakalelu, Laura Bayfield, and Justine McGregor. Australia's sole try was scored by captain Siokapesi Palu. The Black Ferns led 29-5 at halftime, with the final score finishing 40-5.
Series and Historical Context
The defeat extended New Zealand's unbeaten record against Australia to 30 consecutive victories, a streak dating back to their first meeting in 1994.
The match was the final stop in the Pacific Four Series, which also features Canada and the USA. The result placed Australia last in the round-robin tournament, following previous losses to Canada (24-0) and the USA (33-12).
The match also served as the opening Laurie O'Reilly Cup Test of the year. The two teams are scheduled to meet again in Auckland on August 22.
Player Milestones and Team News
Lock Michaela Leonard earned her 46th Test cap in the match, becoming the most-capped player in Wallaroos history. She surpassed the previous record held by Ashley Marsters.
This was interim head coach Sam Needs's final match before Rugby Australia appoints a permanent replacement. Pre-match, Needs stated the team had selected a larger forward pack to counter the Black Ferns' physicality.
Post-Match Statements
"It was a hard match. Australia played with nothing to lose." — New Zealand captain Kennedy Tukuafu
"We executed our plan. New Zealand is a world-class team. There are positive aspects for us to build on for the upcoming Super season and World Series." — Australia captain Michaela Leonard
Wallaroos Lineup (Starting XV)
Brianna Hoy, Tania Naden, Eva Karpani, Michaela Leonard, Tiarah Minns, Kaitlan Leaney, Lily Bone, Siokapesi Palu Sekona (c), Samantha Wood, Faitala Moleka, Desiree Miller, Sidney Taylor, Georgina Friedrichs, Maya Stewart, Waiaria Ellis.
Reserves
Brittany Merlo, Martha Fua, Bridie O'Gorman, Ashley Fernandez, Piper Duck, Piper Simons, Ava Wereta, Nicole Ledington.