Black Ferns too good for vastly-improved France in second test
The New Zealand Black Ferns defeated France 31-12 in the second test of their rugby series in Whangarei. Despite a strong start from the French team, New Zealand secured the win with three late tries.
Why it matters
This match highlights the competitive evolution of women's international rugby and the tactical adjustments made by top-tier teams during multi-game series.
The Black Ferns needed three late tries to see off France 31-12 in the second test in Whangarei - three weeks after crushing the same opponents 81-12.
The vastly improved tourists scored the opening try and trailed just 14-12 at halftime - a scoreline that remained the same until the 67-minute mark before New Zealand cut loose with tries to Amarante Sititi, Braxton Sorenson-McGee and Mererangi Paul, who completed a double.
The highlight was Sorenson-McGee's brilliant 60m solo try - delivering a reminder of the Black Ferns' scintillating attack in the opening match of the three-test series in Hamilton.
Nothing came as easily this time for the home side, who were guilty of basic mistakes and took most of the game to quell a spirited display from the stung French.
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