Maama Mo'onia Vaipulu of New Zealand during the Pacific Four women's rugby match between the New Zealand Black Ferns and USA at FMG Stadium in Hamilton, New Zealand on Saturday May 11, 2024. Copyright photo: Aaron Gillions / www.photosport.nz Photo: Aaron Gillions / www.photosport.nz
The Black Ferns produced a fine attacking display in their Pacific Four Series opener in a 57-5 demolition of the United States women.
New Zealand scored nine tries to one in a commanding performance as the Eagles were no match for the clinical World Champions in Hamilton.
At halftime the New Zealand team were in control with a resounding 36-nil lead after running in six tries in the first 40 minutes.
Black Ferns fullback Mererangi Paul scored a hatrick in a rollicking start in the opening 15 minutes.
See how the match unfolded:
New Zealand co-captain Ruahei Demant told SkySport she was satisfied with the big win.
"We've got really fast outsides and we got a lot of purchase there," Demant said.
"Once the USA were a little bit concerned about our players on the edge, then it started to open up in through the middle.
"You saw that with the likes of ball carries from Kaipo Olsen-Baker and Sylvia Brunt making big gain line carries through the middle."
United States captain Rachel Johnson said the second half effort showed they have more potential than was displayed on the scoreboard.
"I think we showed that our set piece can be a huge advantage on attack and defence," Johnson said.
"We can be lethal if we can put those phases together."
The United States stamped their mark in the second half as their improved defence slowed the rampant attacking of the Black Ferns.
After 64 minutes Freda Tafuna barged over for the Eagles as a reward for their consistent pressure.
But the floodgates opened again with the Black Ferns adding to their second half opener to Ruby Tui with tries to Layla Sae and Patricia Maliepo
Exciting Black Ferns debutants halfback Maia Joseph and lock Maama Mo'onia Vaipulu impressed in their first taste of international rugby.
Reserve Black Ferns first-five Hannah King ran on in the second half for a strong showing on debut off the bench.
King converted three tries for her first points in international rugby.
USA will look to bounce back after they also suffered a heavy 50-7 defeat to Canada in their series opener last month.
And the Pacific Four Series moves to Australia tonight with the Wallaroos hosting Canada in Sydney.
All eyes will be on new Wallaroos coach Jo Yapp with the former England test halfback taking the helm for the Australian women.