Amy du Plessis.. United States of America Women v New Zealand Black Ferns, 2023 Pacific Four women’s rugby union series at TD Place, Ottawa, Canada on Friday 14 July 2023. Mandatory credit: Jana Chytilova / www.photosport.nz Photo: © Photosport Ltd 2023 www.photosport.nz
The Black Ferns survived a major scare to defeat the United States women 39-17 in the final round of the Pacific Four Series in Ottawa.
The USA Eagles dominated the first forty minutes to lead 17-5 at the break with New Zealand reduced to fourteen players after half-back Iritana Hohaia was red carded for a dangerous tackle two minutes into the match.
Ill-discipline was a factor for the inexperienced New Zealand side with black Ferns loose forward Liana Mikaele-Tu'u sin-binned late in the first half.
Captain Ruahei Demant led the Black Ferns revival as the side score 34 unanswered points in the second with New Zealand's experienced forwards coming on as substitutions to settle the side.
Demant, named as the MVP, was relieved the team rallied back after she came onto the field after 30 minutes and didn't take long to get involved in the game.
"We're a team that care for each other and regardless of what's thrown at us we always get back up," Demant said.
"We started with a new-look 15 for our team - we experienced pressures we don't usually experience.
"The scoreline doesn't really reflect all the lessons we've been able to accumulate over this tour."
With the win the World Champions extend their winning streak to sixteen games.
In the final game of the Pacific Four, Canada thumped Australia's Wallaroos 45-7 in Ottawa.
- RNZ