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Canada score first win over Black Ferns


The Black Ferns have had their first loss to Canada in 18 matches in their Pacific Four Series decider in Christchurch.


The Canadian women also won the Pacific Four Series title as a result of the victory.


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The Black Ferns will slip to third place in the women's World Rugby rankings, with Canada moving ahead of New Zealand to second.


England now heads the rankings by a margin, but Canada makes its first appearance inside the top two.


Black Ferns wing Katelyn Vaha'akolo scored two first-half tries, as the home side went to an early lead.


The home side held a 14-10 half-time advantage after Fancy Bermudez has crossed for the Canadians.


Canada has beaten the Black Ferns for the first time in history and won the Pacific Four Series
Canada on the charge against the Blacks Ferns in the Pacific Four Cup PHOTO: LINTOTT PHOTOGRAPHY

Early in the second spell McKinley Hunt scored and then 10 minutes later Bermudez finished off an attack her team linked together to force its way through the New Zealand defence which at times proved to lack cohesion.


A successful conversion by de Goede extended Canada's lead to eight, putting them in a strong position as the match entered its final stages.


Despite New Zealand's late surge, Canada's defence held firm, and they managed to maintain their slim lead until the final whistle.



The Black Ferns were held back in the game by a lack of discipline with yellow cards to

Sylvia Brunt and Aldora Itunu.


Canadian Olivia Apps was also carded, but overall her side kept their heads focused when required


The Black Ferns final game of the tournament is against Australia in North Harbour next Saturday.


Canada 22 (Fancy Bermudez 2, McKinley Hunt tries; Sophie de Goede 2 con, pen) Black Ferns 19 (Katelyn Vahaakolo 2, Patrica Maliepo tries; Ruahei Demant 2 con). HT: 10-14

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