In a vibrant and competitive encounter in Whangārei, the Black Ferns defeated the Black Ferns XV 45-12.
Although the match allowed unlimited substitutions and does not carry first-class status, it served as a significant audition for the Rugby World Cup.
Who stood out individually? Bold proclamations about first impressions can spark healthy debate, suggesting that selectors have plenty of positive decisions to make. Notable performers from the Black Ferns XV included energetic winger Ruby Tui and hardworking locks Laura Bayfield and Sam Taylor. For the reigning world champions, Sylvia Brunt was exceptional, Portia Woodman-Wickliffe thrived in her hometown, and No. 8 Liana Mikaele-Tu’u played with formidable force.
The opening quarter was ambitious but scoreless, filled with errors. For the Black Ferns, No. 8 Mikaele-Tu’u had the ball knocked from her hands by Sam Taylor just as she was diving over the line. Meanwhile, a powerful run from Hollyrae Mete-Renata of the Black Ferns XV went unconverted after a last-ditch defensive effort.
The deadlock was finally broken in the 23rd minute when fullback Braxton Sorensen-McGee scored on the left wing. Woodman-Wickliffe made a damaging run down the right before a swift switch allowed Brazier to free Sorensen-McGee.
The Black Ferns seized the momentum, and a charge-down by Brunt led to a straightforward try in the 28th minute.
Following that, the Black Ferns XV enjoyed their strongest period of the match, with Hannah King creating a try for Tui through a crosskick, an achievement that Renne Holmes would replicate in the second half.
A thrilling moment in the 37th minute helped clarify the outcome. A loose pass was picked up by Sylvia Brunt while the Black Ferns XV were attacking. Brunt sprinted 50 metres but was caught by Jaymie Kolose, who pulled her back by the bottom of her jersey. Another loose ball was collected by Stacey Waaka, and although Brunt trailed behind, Portia Woodman-Wickliffe was on hand to capitalise.
The Black Ferns played a tighter game in the second spell but were willing to chance their arm when space was apparent. Katelyn Vahaakolo and Amy du Plessis hit holes with typical speed and flair. Jorja Miller signposted a stellar sequence that involved multiple forwards and backs.
The Black Ferns host Australia in Wellington in a Laurie O’Reilly Cup Test next Saturday.
Black Ferns: 45 (Braxton Sorensen-McGee 2, Sylvia Brunt, Portia Woodman-Wickliffe, Katelyn Vahaakolo, Amy du Plessis, Jorja Miller tries; Kelly Brazier 3 cons, Renee Holmes 2 cons) Black Ferns XV: 12 (Ruby Tui 2 tries; Keira Su’a-Smith con) HT: 21-5