Black Ferns coach Whitney Hansen praises courage of player who threw intercepted pass
Black Ferns coach Whitney Hansen defended player Amy du Plessis after a risky pass led to a narrow loss against England. Hansen emphasized that she values the team's courageous, attacking mindset over playing for a draw.
Why it matters
It provides insight into the coaching philosophy and risk-management strategies in elite international rugby.
Black Ferns coach Whitney Hansen has praised centre Amy du Plessis' courage in chasing a win, rather than settle for a draw against world champions England on Sunday morning (NZT).
With the two teams locked at 19-all in the dying stages, the NZ women decided to attack from deep in their own half. Du Plessis lined up a long pass, but England's Zoe Harrison intercepted it and raced in for the winning try.
The Red Roses' 26-19 win leaves them unbeaten in their last 41 matches.
Hansen had no trouble at all with du Plessis' intent.
"We didn't want to go down as a draw," Hansen said on Sky Sport straight after the match. "We knew we were going to fight to the death and I love that she threw that pass."
Later, at the press conference, she expanded on her feelings.
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