The Women`s Rugby World Cup reached its thrilling penultimate act with a bronze medal match that delivered intensity, skill, and a testament to resilience. In a captivating encounter, New Zealand`s formidable Black Ferns emerged victorious over a tenacious French side, securing third place with a 42-26 triumph. This wasn`t just a game; it was a rollercoaster of momentum shifts, showcasing the very best of women`s rugby.
The match ignited with a flurry of French intent. Les Bleues immediately asserted their dominance, enjoying significant territorial advantage. Their efforts culminated in an exquisite opening try in the 10th minute, a masterclass of fluid rugby. A series of precise passes following contact found scrum-half Pauline Bourdon Sansus, who skillfully navigated the defense to touch down, signalling France’s ambition early on.
However, the Black Ferns, known for their unwavering spirit, were quick to respond. Ruahei Demant, receiving a crucial inside pass from the ever-present Sylvia Brunt, broke through the French lines to level the score, demonstrating New Zealand’s ability to strike back with clinical efficiency.
The true turning point arrived just before the halftime whistle. Sylvia Brunt, a force throughout the game, powered her way to the try line for New Zealand’s second. What followed was arguably the try of the match, a breathtaking display of teamwork and individual brilliance. George Miller, a nominee for Player of the Year, initiated the move with mesmerizing footwork and a perfectly weighted pass. Brunt, once again at the heart of the action, delivered a pinpoint pass to fullback Renee Holmes, who completed the magnificent effort. Not content, the Black Ferns added another swift try before the break, with Braxton Sorenson-McGee and Miller combining to set up lock Laura Bayfield. This flurry of points saw New Zealand surge ahead to a commanding 26-7 lead at halftime, suggesting the medal was firmly within their grasp.
The second half began with a solo masterclass from Braxton Sorenson-McGee. With space on the wing, she deployed a deceptive dummy pass, outwitting the French defense to score a spectacular individual try. Her momentum was unstoppable, and it wasn`t long before she secured her brace, capitalising on a one-on-one opportunity created by Stacey Waaka’s pass. This marked Sorenson-McGee’s 11th try of the World Cup, pushing the score to a seemingly insurmountable 39-7, and for many, signaling the definitive end of the contest.
Yet, this World Cup has taught us never to underestimate the power of a late surge. In the final quarter, France roared back to life with a captivating display of grit. Flanker Léa Champon initiated their resurgence with a superb individual try, followed by centre Gabbi Vernier`s powerful drive under the posts. Wing Émilie Boulard then capitalized on a blistering run down the flank. With just seven minutes remaining, France had miraculously narrowed the deficit to 39-26, rekindling a flicker of hope and a collective gasp from the spectators. The match, it seemed, wasn`t quite decided after all.
However, it was New Zealand who ultimately had the final say. Renee Holmes, deservedly named Player of the Match for her stellar performance, calmly slotted a crucial conversion, cementing the final score at 42-26. This final act extinguished any lingering French comeback hopes, securing the bronze medal for the Black Ferns in a match that will be remembered for its ebb and flow, demonstrating the tactical depth and raw passion inherent in women`s rugby. It was a fitting conclusion for two teams that left everything on the field, with New Zealand celebrating a hard-fought and well-earned podium finish.
