Scrappy win enough for Black Ferns to sweep Aussies

The Black Ferns have secured a series sweep over the Wallaroos albeit with a scrappy victory in the second test yesterday in Auckland.

New Zealand failed to reach the heights of their record-equalling 67-3 rout on Saturday, although the result was never in doubt as they (Sarah Goss, Toka Natua, Honey Hireme, Portia Woodman, Selica Winiata tries; Kendra Cocksedge 2 cons); (Ashleigh Hewson pen). HT: 17-3. eased to a 29-3 win.

The young Australian team turned up to QBE Stadium with a better attitude in defence but this was not the same polished Black Ferns unit from the series opener.

They lacked cohesion in attack and were guilty of far too many handling errors. They did, however, have a superior scrum, while their aggressive defensive never looked like breaking.

Having lost all of their previous 14 tests against New Zealand, it was imperative the Wallaroos did the little things well to have a chance of an upset.

So you could imagine coach Paul Verrell’s frustration when wing Cobie-Jane Morgan was sent to the sin bin for dissent in just the line second minute of the match.

It didn’t take long for the Black Ferns to capitalise on the numerical advantage as flanker Sarah Goss cleaned up a wayward lineout before unleashing a big fend on the way to scoring the opener.

When prop Toko Natua barged over to make it 12-3 in the 14thminute it appeared as though the Black Ferns would again rack up a cricket score. But much to the surprise of the small crowd gathered in Albany, the visitors found some resolve.

With the series triumph New Zealand retained the Laurie O’Reilly Memorial Trophy and now turn their attention to next month’s end of year tour to Europe.

New Zealand 29 Australia 3