Black Ferns v Wallaroos: Live updates from rugby test at Go Media Stadium
The New Zealand Black Ferns dominated Australia's Wallaroos with a commanding 66-19 victory in their end-of-year rugby schedule opener in Auckland. The Black Ferns showcased a fast, physical, and ruthless performance, with strong contributions from both forwards and backs, and successfully integrated new and less experienced players.
Why it matters
This article highlights a significant win for the Black Ferns, demonstrating their strong form and depth as they begin their international season, which is important for national pride and the sport's development.
If the Black Ferns set out to establish the brand of rugby they want to play under Whitney Hansen’s charge during the Pacific Four series earlier in the year, they provided a reminder of it this time around.
Fast, physical and ruthless, the Black Ferns made an example of Australia’s Wallaroos, kicking off their end-of-year schedule with a commanding 66-19 win in Auckland.
It was as complete a performance as you could hope for from a team who haven’t played a test since April.
“I’m glad that you used that word [ruthless] because that’s one of the things we’ve been searching for,” Hansen said.
“We’re pretty proud of the fact that it wasn’t just a 40-minute effort, it was 80 and, with that, some really great minutes into some young athletes and into some less experienced Black Ferns.
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