As the World Cup progresses, Canada emerges as a formidable yet understated contender, focusing intently on the competition posed by host nation England and defending champions New Zealand. Their performance in the opening match against Fiji showcased their capabilities, particularly highlighting full-back Julia Schell, who dazzled with six tries in a stunning second-half display.
Despite being somewhat overlooked, Canada has a solid track record, previously securing victories against both Australia and the USA, along with a draw against the Black Ferns during the Pacific Four series. Currently ranked as the world’s No. 2 team, their impressive 11-try triumph over Fiji was a testament to their strength, especially in light of Fiji’s challenges, including a red card issued to replacement prop Bulou Vasuturaga for a high tackle following a video review.
The match atmosphere was electric, with 4,810 fans cheering for Fiji, creating an intense backdrop for the physical contest. Canada faced an early hurdle when prop Olivia DeMerchant was injured, leading to DaLeaka Menin stepping into the starting lineup and Maya Montiel being added to the bench.
Fiji, under the guidance of former Wales coach Ioan Cunningham, aimed to launch their campaign strongly and initially held firm defensively, prompting Canada to relinquish possession at times. However, Canada broke the deadlock with a try from Sophie de Goede, setting the tone for what was to follow.
Amidst the fervent support for Fiji, Canada continued to apply pressure, resulting in a second try from Gillian Boag following a successful catch and drive. Following a brief setback when fly-half Taylor Perry received a yellow card for a high tackle, Canada maintained composure. They extended their lead with tries from Caroline Crossley and Alysha Corrigan, while Fiji made notable attempts to rally, particularly through captain Alfreda Fisher and Mereoni Nakesa, yet failed to capitalize.
The second half witnessed the standout moment of the match, with Kolora Lomani scoring a try for Fiji after slick passing among the players. Canada responded emphatically, spearheaded by Schell’s six tries, closing out the match with a final score from Karen Paquin amidst a dominant performance. Fiji’s situation deteriorated further as Vasuturaga’s yellow card was upgraded to a red after another review, accentuating Canada’s control.
With their compelling showings, Canada positions itself as a serious threat in the tournament, compelling their rivals, England and New Zealand, to take notice and prepare accordingly.
Match Summary: Canada 65 – 7 Fiji
- Canada Scorers: Schell (6), De Goede, Boag, Crossley, Corrigan, Paquin
- Conversions: De Goede (4), Tessier
- Fiji Scorers: Lomani
- Red Card: Vasuturaga (70th minute)
- Attendance: 4,810
Canada Lineup:
Schell; Corrigan, Symonds (Seumanutafa 67), Tessier, Bermudez (Apps 46); Perry, Pelletier; Kassail (Hunt 47), Boag (Tuttosi 47), Menin (Montiel 60), De Goede (Paquin 62), O’Donnell (Beukeboom 53), Crossley, Forteza, Senft (Smith 57).
Fiji Lineup:
Vueti (Nailolo 57); Delaiwau (Lomani 40), Adivitaloga, Neihamu, Adi Tove; Kinita (Luvu 73), Railumu; Senivutu (Vasuturaga 52), Tawake (Naliva 72), Robanakadavu (Matarugu 47), Coates, Nakesa (Serevi 53), Delaimoala, Fisher, Komatai (Naisewa 47).
