Bok Women waste golden chance as Black Ferns cruise to victory in Soweto
South Africa had New Zealand down to 13 players and within nine points, but errors proved costly as the Black Ferns pulled away to win 52-20.
The Springbok Women faced a golden chance to upset the Black Ferns at FNB Stadium, but squandered their numerical advantage in a 52-20 loss. South Africa had emphasized the need for an 80-minute performance after their 46-17 defeat in last year's Women's Rugby World Cup quarter-final. The match, a curtain raiser for the third test in the Greatest Rivalry Series between the Springboks and All Blacks, attracted a decent crowd.
The Black Ferns led 24-10 at halftime, capitalizing on South Africa's defensive mistakes. Despite South Africa's fierce comeback after the break, including a try from Vianah Ubisi, they could not capitalize on their 14-player advantage. The Black Ferns, down to 13 players with captain Georgia Ponsonby's yellow card, scored two more tries, including a magnificent passage of play.
South Africa's scrum and rolling maul were effective, with Lindelwa Gwala and Ubisi making the most of the extra man. However, New Zealand's defensive resilience and error exploitation sealed the victory. The Springbok Women's loss will sting due to missed opportunity, with points-scoring contributions from Lindelwa Gwala, Aphiwe Ngwevu, Vianah Ubisi (two tries), Elinor-Plum King, Braxton Sorensen-McGee (two), Veisinia Mahutariki-Fakalelu, Maia Joseph, Amarante Sititi, and Maama Mo’onia Vaipulu.
Written by urgent.news from IOL's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
This story
This is one outlet's version. Read the fullest account.
- HISTORIC CLASH: Springbok Women show promise despite Black Ferns defeat dailymaverick.co.za
