Portia the punisher: 7-try tornado tears through USA as Black Ferns make their way to Pacific Four Glory

Portia Woodman-Wickliffe led New Zealand's Black Ferns to a commanding 79-14 victory over the USA Eagles, securing the Pacific Four Series title. Scoring seven tries in the match, Woodman-Wickliffe not only propelled her team to victory but also became the Black Ferns' all-time leading try-scorer with 45 tries in just 26 test matches.

Journey of Portia Woodman-Wickliffe

This remarkable feat comes after Woodman-Wickliffe's return from retirement earlier this year. Having stepped away from international rugby following a gold medal win at the 2024 Paris Olympics, she was inspired to return during her successful stint with the Blues Women in the Sky Super Rugby Aupiki.

Reflecting on her decision, she shared, "Each week in campaign I thought about the possibility of how I could potentially go to the World Cup more and more. I thought about what it would mean to me but most importantly my whānau (family). I needed time to process everything and making myself available for this team. "

The NZ Fern vs USA Eagles

The match at North Harbour Stadium saw the Black Ferns needing a 25-point victory to reclaim the Pacific Four Series title from Canada. Woodman-Wickliffe's seven tries, complemented by Katelyn Vahaakolo's four, ensured a decisive win. Despite the USA taking an early lead with a try from Freda Tafuna, the Black Ferns quickly regained control, showcasing their dominance throughout the game.

As the Black Ferns look ahead to the Women's Rugby World Cup in England later this year, Woodman-Wickle 's return and record-breaking performance have undoubtedly bolstered the team's confidence.

With this victory, the Black Ferns not only reclaim the Pacific Four Series title but also reaffirm their status as a formidable force in women's rugby.