Canada produced a dominating performance to defeat Wales 42-0, six tries to one, to bring themselves closer to a quarterfinal berth in the Women's Rugby World Cup on Saturday. The win highlighted Canada's dominant set-piece power, strategic play, and incessant attacking style.
Canada's front row were class all game, only losing two set pieces—both lineout throws—and turning every scrum Wales way. Their dominance permitted Canada to play long phases, such as a 15-meter rolling maul try that showcased their strength.
Prop McKinley Hunt collected two tries, while substitute Brittany Kassil contributed the other. Lock Sophie de Goede was player of the match for her 20 carries, 10 tackles, and all six try conversions.
"We were very dominant in the set-piece, it was amazing to watch our girls dominate the scrums, and the lineout was still strong for us," commented Canada captain Alex Tessier to the BBC.
Wales began well, with possession in Canada's 22 inside the first 10 minutes, but they could not keep up with Canada's strength. In the first half, Canada paid six visits to Wales' 22 and scored four tries within a 15-minute period. Hunt, right wing Alysha Corrigan, and left wing Asia Hogan-Rochester spearheaded the attack, and Hogan-Rochester completed a spectacular 70-meter try.
The second period witnessed an increase in yellow cards as Wales' Georgia Evans was sin-binned for a head-high tackle and Canada's Olivia DeMerchant was yellow-carded. Although down to 14 players for a while, Canada saw through defensive solidity and increased their lead with tries by flyhalf Taylor Perry and Kassil.
Canada's victory was their eighth consecutive one over Wales dating back to 2007 and their third shutout during that streak. Should Scotland defeat Fiji, Canada and Scotland would both qualify from Pool B.
