New Zealand thrash France in World Cup third-place play-off

Third-place play-off for the Women’s Rugby World Cup

New Zealand: (26) 42

Cons: Holmes (3) Pens: Holmes (2) Tries: Demant, Brunt, Holmes, Bayfield, Sorensen-McGee, and

France: (7) 26

With a dominant display at Twickenham, New Zealand defeated France to finish third in their World Cup defense.

The Black Ferns rallied from France’s early try to take the lead at half-time by 26-7 in a lively atmosphere before England’s final match against Canada.

Midway through the second half, teenage Braxton Sorensen-McGee scored two more tries to finish the tournament, extending her try-scoring lead.

The six-time world champions were done with the outcome after France scored three more successful scores in the final three scores.

Ruahei Demant, the captain of the Black Ferns, praised the team and the French for their heart, passion, and pride in our play today.

“This tournament in England deserves a lot more reflection, but fair play to England for staging such an incredible tournament.”

New Zealand, who had hoped to win a third successive World Cup record-breaking match, saw their 11-year unbeaten streak ended by Canada in the pair’s semi-final eight days prior.

In the 57th minute, Katelyn Vaha’akolo replaced their legendary winger Portia Woodman-Wickliffe, who had earlier become New Zealand’s record try-scorer. She received a standing ovation and was then brought to tears.

The 34-year-old retired from professional football to play for the Black Ferns.

Green, Tangen-Wainohu, Rule, Bremner, Sae, Joseph, Setefano, and Vaha’akolo are the replacements.

France: Boulard, Grisez, Konde, Vernier, Menager, Arbez, Bourdon, Brosseau, Gerin, Bernadou, Maka, Fall, Escudero, Champon, Feleu.