USA Delivers Stunning Comeback to Defeat Australia in Pacific Four Series Finale
Melbourne, Australia – 26 June 2024: In a thrilling display of resilience, the USA Women’s Eagles produced a remarkable second-half performance to defeat Australia 32-25 in the final match of the 2024 Pacific Four Series. The victory boosts the USA’s hopes of qualifying for the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup and the upcoming WXV 1 tournament in Canada later this year.
Trailing 20-8 at half-time, the USA’s powerful forward pack, led by two-try hero Hope Rogers, spearheaded an inspired comeback in the second half. The Women’s Eagles’ dominance up front proved to be the decisive factor, as they overturned the deficit to secure a famous win.
Australia had taken control in the first half, with their pace and creativity enabling them to cross the line three times through Desiree Miller, Ashley Marsters, and Maya Stewart. However, the USA defense tightened up after the break, and their forwards’ relentless carries and maul work swung the momentum in their favor.
Hooker Kathryn Treder scored from a driving maul to give the USA hope before the break, and after halftime, prop Rogers twice barged over the line to level the scores at 20-20. Lotte Clapp’s brilliantly-taken individual try then put the USA in front, and Atumata Hingano added a late score to seal the victory.
The result leaves the USA in pole position to finish third in the Pacific Four Series standings, a significant step towards their goal of qualifying for the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup and WXV 1. For Australia, the defeat means they must now beat New Zealand with a bonus point next Saturday to secure their place in WXV 2 and a potential route to the World Cup.
This was a remarkable turnaround from the USA, who had been comprehensively beaten 58-17 by Australia in last year’s fixture. The Women’s Eagles’ display at AAMI Park showcased their growing strength and resilience, with their powerful forward pack and determined second-half performance proving the difference on the day.
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