Imagine celebrating your birthday by scoring not just one, but two tries in a high-stakes rugby match that secures your team’s spot in a major final. That’s exactly what Jorja Miller did, turning her 22nd birthday into an unforgettable day at the HSBC SVNS Perth tournament. But here’s where it gets even more thrilling: the Black Ferns Sevens are now just one win away from claiming their first title in Western Australia, and they’ll face none other than their arch-rivals, Australia, in a showdown that’s become all too familiar this season.
On a scorching Sunday afternoon at HBF Park, New Zealand booked their place in the decider with a hard-fought 24-14 victory over France. This sets the stage for the fourth Cup Final clash between the Black Ferns and Australia this season, after the hosts dispatched the USA 26-5. And this is the part most people miss: while Australia is aiming to defend their crown, New Zealand is hungry for their first SVNS Series win in Perth, adding an extra layer of intensity to this rivalry.
Both teams dominated the first day of the tournament, each securing flawless 3-0 records. Australia’s standout performance included a staggering 54-5 win over Great Britain, while New Zealand continued to prove why they’re a force to be reckoned with. Here’s the controversial bit: despite their consistent dominance, neither team has managed to decisively outshine the other this season, leaving fans and analysts divided on who truly holds the upper hand.
Risi Pouri-Lane led the Black Ferns onto the field in Perth, with France donning their alternative white jerseys. Though New Zealand entered as favorites, France came prepared to challenge. SVNS Series newcomer Braxton Sorensen-McGee kicked off the match, and France initially controlled possession. Pouri-Lane’s aggressive defense created an opportunity for France, with captain Lili Dezou breaking through before being tackled by Miller. Anaick Konyi capitalized on the offload, scoring France’s first try.
New Zealand responded swiftly. Pouri-Lane fielded the restart, sprinted 60 meters, and scored a decisive try, though Sorensen-McGee missed the conversion. France extended their lead through Alycia Christiaens, who powered past Kelsei Teneti, making it 14-5. But here’s where the tide turned: Miller’s birthday brilliance came to the fore as she sliced through France’s defense with a 40-metre carry, scoring her first try in the seventh minute.
In the dying moments of the first half, Stacey Waaka blocked France’s attempt to kick into touch, setting up Mahina Paul for the go-ahead try. Waaka’s playmaking continued in the second half, as she set up Miller for her second try. Though Katelyn Vahaakolo initially fumbled a scoring opportunity, she redeemed herself with a try moments later, sealing her double.
‘We talked about it—it’s the small moments that win it,’ Waaka reflected post-game. ‘We always have each other’s back. Staying calm, patient, and making the most of our possession is key.’
Now, the stage is set for the final against Australia, who delivered a clinical performance against the USA. Try-scoring sensation Maddison Levi opened the scoring within the first minute, with Heidi Dennis adding to the lead before halftime. Co-captain Madison Ashby struck early in the second half, and Levi completed her double. The USA managed a consolation try through Su Adegoke, but it wasn’t enough to stop Australia’s march to the final.
Here’s the question that’s sure to spark debate: Can New Zealand finally break their Perth drought, or will Australia’s home advantage prove too much to handle? Share your thoughts in the comments—this final promises to be a battle for the ages!
