Blacks Ferns claim Canada Cup in convincing fashion

The New Zealand women's rugby team convincingly won the Canada Cup in Ottawa today (NZ time) hammering the hosts 32-5.

The Black Ferns held a slim 10-5 halftime lead, but broke free after the break with wings Stephanie Mortimer Claire Richardson both crossing for two tries each.

Melissa Ruscoe was the other try-scorer for the Black Ferns.

Coach Jed Rowlands said that although the scoreboard suggested a comprehensive win, they had to work hard for the impressive victory.

"Canada played well in the first half and we realised we had to change things in the second if we were to win the game," Rowlands said.

"And we did. We decided to speed the game up and get the ball wide and that came off."

"This tournament has been good preparation for us, not only for the two-match series against England later this year but also looking ahead to next year's World Cup."

Rowland was especially pleased with the performance of the younger members of the squad in the heat of international rugby.

"They have all done well and that's encouraging for the future."

New Zealand 32 (Claire Richardson 2, Stephanie Mortimer 2, Melissa Ruscoe tries; Hannah Myers pen, con, Nicole Borthwick con)
Canada 5
Halftime: 10-5.

- NZPA