NZ Herald: The world champion Black Ferns have been stunned by Ireland 17-14 at the Women’s Rugby World Cup in France Wednesday morning.
It was the first World Cup match the Black Ferns have lost since the semi-final against USA in 1991.
Ireland all but booked their place in the semi-final with the win, while the Black Ferns must now beat the USA in their final pool match to advance.
The Black Ferns appeared to be in control after taking an 8-0 lead midway through the first half from a SelicaWiniata try and Kelly Brazier penalty, but Ireland hit back in the 34th minute when Heather O-Brien went over and Niamh Briggs converted.
The score was 8-7 to New Zealand at halftime.
Early in the second half Brazier kicked another penalty to push the lead out to four, but Ireland responded once again with a try to Alison Miller. The try was converted putting Ireland ahead 14-11.
Brazier struck back with a penalty to level things up, but with 10 minutes to play Briggs kicked a penalty for Ireland to sink the tournament favourites and claim a historic win for Ireland.
– NZ Herald
