'A lot of sore bodies': Black Ferns feel the toll after Springbok battle
SPOTLIGHT: The Black Ferns’ hard-fought 46-17 quarterfinal win over South Africa has left more than just bruises – it delivered exactly the challenge they needed as they chase a seventh Rugby World Cup title.
Despite running in eight tries, Allan Bunting’s side were pushed to the limit by a physical Springbok Women’s outfit, who dominated large portions of the first half.
At halftime, the scores were locked at 10-all, with South Africa’s relentless power game – including a 15-player maul – catching the defending champions off guard.
“We needed a couple of days’ rest. A lot of sore bodies – so many tackles, holy moly,” Black Ferns star Stacey Waaka told reporters on Tuesday.
“I don’t think we’ve made that many tackles ever.”
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South Africa’s direct approach proved disruptive, forcing the Black Ferns into one of their most physically taxing matches in recent memory.
Waaka praised the Springboks’ creativity at the set-piece, especially their surprising approach at the line-out.
“We didn’t know that was coming, but I loved it.
“I loved the creativity and their point of difference. At least they tried other things that teams haven’t been doing. It really made our backs think – what do we do here? That’s part of rugby though; it’s so innovative, and you find different ways to win.”
With the semifinal looming, assistant coach Steve Jackson acknowledged the team is now preparing for a very different challenge in second-ranked Canada, who play a faster, more expansive style than the Springboks.
“Canada like to get on the outside, shorten up your defensive line, and then move the ball really quickly.
“So, we’ve got a job to do in terms of our defensive efforts and making sure that we’re dominant in those areas around the tackle and breakdown.”
The Black Ferns will now take on the world’s second-ranked team, Canada, in Bristol on Friday.
