Rugby World Cup: Australia v New Zealand women’s final, goals, Ali Brigginshaw celebrates

Australia defeated New Zealand 54-4 in the Women’s World Cup final at Old Trafford in Manchester.

The Jillaroos only beat Kiwis 10-8 in the group stage, but they went 10 to one in the decider.

At half-time the score was 20-0 and Australia had an even more relentless second half when Kennedy Cherrington scored a brace.

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Isabelle Kelly and Jessica Segis also finished with doubles, while Julia Robinson, Emma Tonegato and Tarrin Aiken crossed.

Veteran Jillaroos midfielder Ali Brigginshaw was named Man of the Match as Australia won their third straight World Cup.

Brigginshaw, along with Lauren Brown, added seven conversions in between to limit what turned out to be a long day undercover for Kiwi Ferns.

“It was incredible from all the girls. It was defensively focused and I’ve never been part of a group that can defend like that, it was special,” Brigginshaw said.

“We never rest defensively, we let them pass once and kick ourselves for it.

“All the people who said I was too old, I am still here and will play (at the 2025 World Cup) in France.

“We’re going to celebrate this tonight.”

The two previous finals between the two teams, in 2017 and 2013, both won by Australia, were close, separated by just 10 and 7 points respectively.

Madison Bartlett scored on the Black Ferns scoreboard with a corner kick in the 65th minute.

New Zealand coach Ricky Henry said the result was “tough”.

“To Australia’s credit, they played really well today. It’s a big stage and a little experience for us,” Henry said.

We have a young squad and I hope that in 2025 they will be better prepared to try their hand.

“You have to be ruthless, and they were – we didn’t have that. We are proud of what we have done before, but today they showed a different level.”

Originally published as ‘It was incredible’: Gillarus wins World Cup with ruthless 10-trial kiwi demolition