The Black Ferns have done the business, and in some style too.
They defeated USA 47-14, scoring eight tries to two, to clinch the inaugural Women's Super Series in Edmonton. In doing so, they beat three of the top sides in the world in the space of nine days and off very limited preparation, so one must tip one's hat to them.
Their second half against the USA was dynamic, pouring on the pressure after leading 15-14 at the break. Right wing Honey Hireme was almost unstoppable with her hat-trick, upping her tally to five for the tournament, but she saved the best for her final flourish, a brilliant 80m solo effort which showed off her pace - fast - and her swerve.
The Waikato flyer was rightly awarded the player of the match, but in truth the Black Ferns were strong across the board, especially at 10-12-13, where pivot Victoria Subritzky-Nafatali capped a strong tournament with a well-taken try, the first of the game, and Chelsea Alley added thrust to the midfield.
Centre Stacey Waaka had her best outing of the series, in the position where Huriana Manuel has often cut capers for this team. Waaka set up Hireme's second try with a lovely piece of deception and slick pass, while she then scored off a pinpoint crosskick by Subritzky-Nafatali. Left wing Renee Wickliffe, who also scored a try, was dangerous all afternoon. Her try came from a simple 'miss two' move with slick hands. Fullback Selica Winiata gave the last pass.
