THE Manusina had one last roll of the dice as they closed their RWC2025 campaign with another absolute banger against the USA.
Coming into this match, the USA already had a loss and a draw under the belt; they needed a good win against Samoa to somehow edge Australia and qualify into the quarter. They were aiming for a very comfortable win.
Most rugby critics highlighted that it was going to be another wipe out, especially since the USA were vying for a quarter-finals berth. The USA ran in five tries in the first half, but only slotted one conversion. USA led 27–0 at the break.
At this point, the Manusina had nothing more to lose than their pride. Captain Sui Pauraisa tackled hard all day. She led the game stats for the most tackles made but the USA completely overpowered Samoa.
Manusina showed some quality work in the lineouts but just can’t seem to capitalise more on the opportunities.
USA seasoned prop Hope Rogers was powerful in the rucks. She is well known for her lethal ‘pick n go’. Rogers and number 8 Rachel Johnson dominated in the battle in the forwards.
The most famous women’s rugby player, Ilona Maher, was steady in centrefield. Samoa’s outside center, Keilamarita Pouri-Lane did her best to contain Maher, who is sometimes known for her powerful crash balls.
Manusina powerhouse number 8 Nina Foaese was subbed into the game. She did her best in trying to subdue the onslaught by the American women.
The Manusina made use of their bench and brought in the replacements in the second half, but the USA still maintained their dominance. They scored another 5 tries in the second half.
The match ended 60–0 to USA.