Canadian Rugby Squad Upsets Reigning World Champions, the Black Ferns
In a stunning upset, the Canadian rugby squad overcame the reigning world champion Black Ferns, securing a historic 22-19 victory in the Pacific Four Series finale at Christchurch. This marked Canada’s first-ever win over the New Zealand side, a momentous achievement for the Canadian rugby program.
The match was a defensive masterclass, with Canada making close to 250 tackles compared to the Black Ferns’ 101. The Canadian team executed an aggressive defensive strategy, completing an impressive 90% of their tackle attempts throughout the hard-fought 80-minute contest.
Despite the Black Ferns’ blistering start, racing out to a 14-3 lead by the 22nd minute, the Canadian squad weathered the storm and utilized their powerful rolling maul to great effect. They mounted a spirited comeback, taking the lead early in the second half and never relinquishing it.
“The journey to the 2023 Rugby World Cup would not be smooth, but it’s important to face such challenges in driving the team’s growth and expansion,” acknowledged Black Ferns captain Ruahei Demant.
Coach Allan Bunting praised Canada’s development, recognizing their improved kicking game and physicality as key factors in the upset victory.
This result follows the Black Ferns’ recent struggles in the inaugural WXV 1 competition, where aggressive defensive lines from France and England disrupted their potent attacking prowess, leading to a fourth-place finish behind their fellow Pacific Four Series rivals.
The Canadian rugby community can take immense pride in this historic triumph, which showcases the continued growth and competitiveness of the sport in the country. As the teams turn their attention to the 2023 Rugby World Cup, this victory is sure to provide a significant boost in confidence and momentum for the Canadian squad.
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