There might have been a hiccup on day four but Australia went back to their dominating best in the final of the women’s open division of the 2015 Touch World Cup.
Australia defeated New Zealand 8-4 at the C.ex Coffs International Stadium on Sunday. The Kiwis stun the touch the world on Saturday when they defeated Australia.
It was the first loss for Australia in 73 matches of the Touch World Cup.
That defeat was the electric shock Australia needed as it was a different-looking team who played in the final. They completed dominated the match and did not give the Kiwis an inch.
Marikki Watego scored four touchdowns and Ashleigh Quinlan took home a double.
Captain Louise Winchester, a stalwart of the Australia women’s open team in 2001, became emotional after the match.
“It means the world. I could not be any prouder of my girls, they stood up and they stood so tall today,” Winchester said holding back tears.
“To do it in front of our family and friends in Australia, it means the world.
“We were expecting a tough game and we prepared for that.
“New Zealand is just a quality side and they have showed that in the last three years, especially this year.”
New Zealand coach Peter Walters said his team did not play to their potential.
“I am so proud of my girls but the Aussies really showed how to play finals footy,” Walters said.
“They had a great start and we couldn’t counter that, and it went on from there.
“We can compete and compete well but in this time right now, it is a tough pill to swallow.”
Australia scored four touchdowns to the Kiwis’ one in the first half.
Emily Hennessey and Peta Rogerson created plenty of opportunities for Australia.
The offensive blitz continued in the second half when Australia jumped to an 8-2 lead.
New Zealand scored twice late in the match but it had little effect.
In the bronze medal match, Singapore defeated South Africa 7-2.
Women’s open final
AUSTRALIA 8 (Marikki Watego 4, Ashleigh Quinlan 2, Sarah Spacie, Kristin Boss touchdowns) def NEW ZEALAND 4 (Tara Mohi, Dayna Turnbull, Destiny Grace, Jessica Drummond touchdowns).
Player of the final: Emily Hennessey (Australia).
Touch World Cup Finals results
Men’s Open
Australia 11 defeated New Zealand 2
Women’s Open
Australia 8 defeated New Zealand 4
Mixed Open
Australia 8 defeated New Zealand 5
Men’s 50’s
Australia 7 defeated Italy 2
Men’s 40’s
Australia 7 defeated New Zealand 6 (drop-off)
Men’s 35’s
New Zealand 6 defeated Australia 5
Men’s 30’s
Australia 9 defeated Cook Islands 1
Women’s 27’s
Australia 6 defeated New Zealand 1
Senior Mixed
Australia 11 defeated New Zealand 7
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