Canadian women tip Italy in test of rugby powers

LANGFORD, B.C. — A strong second-half performance by a rejuvenated Canadian side gave the hosts a 34-24 victory over Italy in a women’s international rugby 15s test match at Starlight Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

Tied 12-12 at halftime, Canada struck twice in the first 10 minutes of the second half in the match featuring world-ranked No. 4 Canada and No. 6-rated Italy. The teams will be competing in the same pool at October's World Cup in New Zealand.

Canada’s dominant pack powered its way to two early second-half scores and a 26-12 advantage as Emily Tuttosi of Souris, Man., and hometown product, and team captain Sophie de Goede punched in tries with some strong work up front. Both tries were converted by Brianna Miller of Pointe-Claire, Que.

“I thought we started the game well, too. Then we lulled a bit the second 20 (minutes) of the first half. We lulled a bit near the end of the game, too, after they put in that try, but we did a good job to close it out in the end and win back momentum. It was definitely a game of ebbs and flows,” said de Goede, who was named player of the match.

The extra honour was a thrill for the Victoria product, who had a large contingent on hand.

“It was absolutely incredible. Just being able to go up into the stands after the game and give my mom and dad hugs, and brothers and aunts and uncles and all my family and friends. Honestly, there’s no feeling like it. I’m still revelling in the game,” said de Goede.

The victory didn’t come without some scares, however.

Sara Tounesi kept Italy’s hopes alive with a try 58 minutes in, but Canada flexed its muscle off a lineout as the pack mauled its way in eight minutes later to extend the lead to 31-17 when Paige Farries of Red Deer recorded her