Black Ferns credit Canada's growth, lament poor discipline in loss

Canada took out the Pacific Four Series crown over the weekend in Christchurch with an historic 22-19 win over the Black Ferns.

It was Canada's first-ever win over the New Zealand side, adding to what was a momentous day for Canadian rugby.

In a game where Canada made just shy of 250 tackles compared to New Zealand's 101, the visitors completed just shy of 90 per cent of their tackle attempts, executing an aggressive defensive line throughout a stoic 80-minute performance.

Having gone up 24-0 in the opening 10 minutes of their game against the USA, the Black Ferns again came out of the gates with intent in Christchurch, but the 14-3 lead they had built by the 22nd minute against Canada wasn't enough.

The Canadians weathered the New Zealand storm and used their rolling maul to great effect, coming from behind to claim a lead early in the second half that they would never relinquish.

“We can always improve. That’s where our focus was and that was the message at the end of the game," Black Ferns captain Ruahei Demant said following the loss.

“I think it’s exciting to know that whatever opposition you play, you can’t take lightly. The journey for us to the World Cup next year isn’t always going to be smooth, but I think this is where we get the most growth.

“We’re looking to expand and grow in many areas of our game and we know that isn’t always going to go perfectly, but that’s where we’re going to get the most growth.”

Black Ferns coach Allan Bunting said there were some simple lessons to be learnt from the contest and gave his team's opposition their flowers for the win.

"Canada have grown their game, and they came out and have made some changes, they've got a kicking game that worked really well for them."

New Zealand's ambitious attacking game struggled in last year's inaugural WXV 1 competition after another unbeaten run through the Pacific Four Series and of course, 2022's Rugby World Cup win.

Aggressive defensive lines from the likes of France and England unravelled the reigning world champs' potent attack, leading to a fourth-placed finish below both of their fellow Pacific Four Series foes in the top international division.

“It was frustrating at times, and obviously we’re disappointed as a whole group. It’s on all of us,” Bunting added.

“Canada, they did bring it to us... They were physical and held on to the ball and they certainly played in the right areas of the field. Our discipline let them down there quite a bit, so we’ll take some lessons from that.”