‘Aussies Outclassed by New Zealand in Historic Anzac Day Test: A World-Class Performance’

The blackout persists.

New Zealand’s Black Ferns maintained their flawless record against Australia’s Wallaroos, extending it to 30-0 with a commanding 40-5 victory on the Sunshine Coast.

Winger Ayesha Leti-I’iga made a significant impact by scoring twice in the first half, leading her team to a victory marked by six tries to one, which allowed the Kiwis to keep the O’Reilly Cup on Saturday night.

This match marked the inaugural trans-Tasman Anzac Test between the women’s teams, witnessed by 5,508 spectators despite unfavourable weather conditions.

Australia’s sole try was scored by captain Siokapesi Palu Sekona, who originally hails from New Zealand.

“We’re upset; we came in with a game plan which we executed, but we must acknowledge New Zealand, as they’re a world-class team for a reason,” Palu Sekona commented to Stan Sport.

“We’ve taken some positives from this match, which are aspects we need to build on.

“Playing in this historic Test match on Anzac Day and having the honour of representing the country for which they fought is a thrilling experience.”

The Black Ferns completed a hat-trick of victories, returning home with two trophies after clinching the Pacific Four Series with yet another substantial win.

The Whitney Hansen coaching era kicked off splendidly for New Zealand, who followed up last weekend’s impressive victory over Canada.

This win propelled the Black Ferns back to second place in the world rankings, closely trailing England.

Meanwhile, the Wallaroos are still in a part-time state in many aspects and struggle to compete with a fully professional team like the Black Ferns.

The Black Ferns arrived in Australia after benefiting from a two-week training camp in the United States.

Adverse weather during those matches posed challenges.

Heavy rain during the second half against the Wallaroos complicated matters, even on the Sunshine Coast, while the Black Ferns attempted to execute their slick plays.

Their scrum and lineout proved effective, setting a solid foundation for their dominant attack.

Victories against the United States and Canada—including a much-welcomed win following their World Cup semi-final loss—boosted their confidence significantly.

Centre Amy du Plessis has consistently demonstrated her prowess, being strong in defence and attacking the line, scoring in just the fourth minute to kick off their scoring spree.

Ayesha Leti-I’iga’s welcome double before half-time, alongside a try from substitute prop Veisinia Mahutariki-Fakalelu to start the second half, ensured their victory was beyond doubt.

Both teams will meet again in August to wrap up the two-Test series after concluding their domestic club seasons.