PACIFIC FOUR SERIES,JULY 15th,2023 BLACK FERNS v USA
Pacific Four Series: Black Ferns v United States Where: TD Place, Ottawa, Canada When: Saturday,
History will be made on Saturday as the Black Ferns go head-to-head with the United States in a highly anticipated match during the Pacific Four Series. The picturesque TD Place in Ottawa, Canada, will witness this epic showdown that promises thrills and surprises.
At the center of attention is Maiakawanakaulani Roos, a remarkable 21-year-old lock who will etch her name in the annals of rugby history as the youngest player to lead the Black Ferns. Roos’ appointment as captain for this crucial encounter against the United States is a testament to her exceptional skills and unwavering dedication both on and off the field.
In preparation for this clash, the Black Ferns have implemented wholesale changes to their team, aiming to showcase the depth of talent within their ranks. Director of rugby, Allan Bunting, sees this final fixture against the United States as an opportunity to provide new players with invaluable experience and to further solidify the team’s foundations.
Notable adjustments to the lineup include co-captains Kennedy Simon and Ruahei Demant starting from the bench, allowing fresh faces to shine on the field. Waikato loosehead prop Esther Faiaoga-Tilo and Counties Manukau hooker Grace Gago have been named to make their debuts, while Taranaki halfback Iritana Hohaia and Canterbury first-five Rosie Kelly earn their first starts, adding experience to the backline. Additionally, the long-awaited return of Grace Brooker, who has recovered from a serious knee injury, injects further strength into the Black Ferns’ lineup.
Allan Bunting expressed pride in the team’s growth and emphasized the importance of building depth and solid game foundations. He highlighted the resilience shown by the players during a challenging travel week and looks forward to witnessing the new Black Ferns take the lead in this test. Effort, intentionality, and embracing special moments remain the team’s key focus.
Facing the Black Ferns will be the formidable United States squad, ready to demonstrate their prowess on the neutral turf of TD Place. Led by captain Kate Zackary, the American team comprises skilled athletes such as McKenzie Hawkins and Tess Feury, who will undoubtedly provide tough competition for their opponents.
The clash between the Black Ferns and the United States promises to be an enthralling encounter. In their previous meeting, the Black Ferns triumphed over the United States with an impressive scoreline of 50-6. However, both teams have evolved since then, setting the stage for an intense battle that will captivate rugby fans around the world.
Make sure to mark your calendars for this historic showdown between the Black Ferns and the United States during the Pacific Four Series. Join us at TD Place in Ottawa, Canada, as these talented athletes showcase their skills and leave a lasting impression on the rugby world. Witness the next chapter of rugby history unfold before your eyes.
Remember, great things take time, and this clash promises to be a testament to the dedication, passion, and incredible talent displayed by these exceptional athletes.
Black Ferns: Tenika Willison, Kelsey Teneti, Amy du Plessis, Grace Brooker, Grace Steinmetz, Rosie Kelly, Iritana Hohaia, Liana Mikaele-Tu’u, Kendra Reynolds, Lucy Jenkins, Maiakawanakaulani Roos, Joanah Ngan-Woo, Amy Rule, Grace Gago, Esther Faiaoga-Tilo.
Reserves: Georgia Ponsonby, Phillipa Love, Tanya Kalounivale, Chelsea Bremner, Kennedy Simon, Arihiana Marino-Tauhinu, Ruahei Demant, Renee Holmes.
The game will be played on neutral turf at TD Place in Ottawa, Canada. Formerly known as Lansdowne Park and Frank Chair Stadium, TD Place is steeped in history having hosted FIFA tournaments, championship games for the Grey Cup (Canada’s version of the Superbowl) and soccer matches during the 1976 Olympic Games.
USA Eagles:
1. Catie Benson 2. Kathryn Treder 3. Charli Jacoby 4. Rachel Ehrecke 5. Hallie Taufoou 6. Paluvava’u Freda Tafuna 7. Georgie Perris-Redding (VC) 8. Rachel Johnson 9. Taina Tukuafu 10. McKenzie Hawkins 11. Summer Harris-Jones 12. Eti Haungatau 13. Kate Zackary (C) 14. Jennine Detiveaux 15. Tess Feury
Reserves: 16. Jett Hayward 17. Mona Tupou 18. Tiara A’au 19. Evelyn Ashenbrucker 20. Erica Jarrell* 21. Olivia Ortiz 22. Joanne Fa’avesi 23. Meya Bizer
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