LOS ANGELES (USA Rugby Release) - The USA Women's Eagles fell to Canada 7-50 in the first match of the 2024 Pacific Four Series. Playing on home soil in Los Angeles the Eagles have some lessons and positive takeaways to bring into their next two matches in New Zealand and Australia.
The Eagles showed promise on both sides of the ball against Canada. They kept up great defensive pressure, leading in several penalty turnovers. But a physical and intent Canadian side were quick and urgent, ultimately taking the win Sunday afternoon. Some big lessons are in play for the Eagles as they head to New Zealand for their next Pacific Four Series matchup.
The team will travel this week and reconvene to prepare and hone their skills as they prepare for their next game against New Zealand. USA v New Zealand kicks off Friday, May 10, at 10:05 pm ET, live on Peacock.
Comments from Head Coach Sione Fukofuka:
"It was a tough result, and shows the gap that exists at the moment. We'll work pretty hard to close that gap, but Canada are a class outfit. Our takeaways are around our ability to convert our set piece possession into a little bit of momentum and clearly our field possession put us under pressure.
It was outstanding being in Chula Vista initially and here in Los Angeles was great. There were a lot of familiar faces in the crowd and it was a great day for rugby. I'm disappointed with our performance but so excited to bring rugby to LA and get more opportunities to play on home soil."
04.28.2024Eagles
Comments from Captain Rachel Johnson:
"It's a tough result and not the result we wanted. But sport is hard and we compete because we want a challenge. Today was a challenge. We didn't come on top of that challenge but PAC4 is a long series. We're building in this group. We finally have a permanent coach on board, so it takes some time to get aligned. I believe in the heart and fight of this team so we're ready to put our heads down and get to work. Last time we played New Zealand, we led them at half, so we know that's another challenge ahead but we're also ready to face it and continue our build toward New Zealand and Australia.
A massive thank you to the fans. It's such an honor and privilege to play back at home. it's been too long, hopefully we do it again soon. Next time we do it, we'll give you guys the win you deserve."
“It was a very physical game, especially in the first half which we always know it will be against the USA playing at home,” said Canada captain Sophie de Goede. “We really had to weather that first half and then pick up the tempo in the second half. I am proud of how we did that today. We just needed to make sure we were moving the ball faster and being proactive with our positioning.”
USA 7
Tries: Perris-Redding
Convs: Cantorna
Canada 50
Tries: de Goede 2, Gallagher 2, Beukeboom, Royer, Grant, Omokhuale
Convs: de Goede 5
