"We came out with a goal for the series. We are learning each tournament and doing what we need to do. I'm happy for the girls. They're playing amazing and can't wait for the next two."
Moving comfortably through their pool on day one at Westhills Stadium, New Zealand were challenged only by England, winning 24-12, before hanging tough on day two, where Fiji and England, again, were competitive, in the Cup quarters and semifinals. In fact, they relied on a late flourish to see off a resurgent England in that playoff clash.
Russia were the surprise packets of the event, beating Australia in the quarters and reaching their first Cup final. Much of their play revolved around captain Nadezda Kudinova and speedster Ekaterina Kazakova, who scored a fine double. While the Russians gave a good account of themselves with ball in hand, they were hit hard early by the Portia Woodman whirlwind.
The series' leading tryscorer crossed for two tries in the opening salvoes, for her 41st and 42nd of this season, and eighth and ninth of this event, as New Zealand again opened with speed and dynamism.
For the first, Woodman shrugged off a defender and bolted 50m, while for the second she and partner-in-crime Kayla McAlister executed a 1-2 move for the score in the corner.
When McAlister scored her fifth of the event after seven minutes, New Zealand were clear at 19-0. Honey Hireme added another soon after the break, combining superbly with the unheralded Hazel Tubic, who got through a power of work on the tackle at the breakdown, even if not registering on the scoresheet.
New Zealand often looked to create space off quick taps or set-play, but they didn't have to do anything when Carla Hohepa dived over off a loose Russian lineout for the fifth try.
Woodman was the sole Kiwi in the tournament Dream Team.
Three of the focus Cup semifinalists were from Europe, and the onus will be on Canada, Australia and USA to rake in points in the London and Amsterdam tournaments to ensure they lock in Olympics qualification.
