Julia Schell showcased an outstanding performance on Saturday, scoring six tries as Canada dominated Fiji with a resounding 65-7 victory in the opening match of the Women’s Rugby World Cup held in York, England. Schell’s remarkable feat saw her scoring all six tries consecutively within a span of 22 minutes during the second half.
This achievement from Schell tied for the second-highest number of tries scored in a single World Cup match, matching Krista McFarren’s six tries for the U.S. against Sweden in 1994. The record for the most tries in a match remains at eight, achieved by Portia Woodman-Wickliffe of New Zealand against Hong Kong in 2017. Canada’s previous record was five tries in a match, last accomplished in 2017.
The match was completely dominated by Canada, currently ranked second globally, having maintained an unbeaten streak in eight tests this year. The team is determined to secure its first-ever World Cup victory.
Canada swiftly secured a bonus-point try early in the game. Despite flyhalf Taylor Perry receiving a yellow card for head contact, flanker Caroline Crossley managed to score, setting up wing Alysha Corrigan to secure their fourth try by the 29th minute.
Fiji, trailing 24-0 at halftime, displayed a spirited comeback in the second half with a thrilling try initiated from their own 22. However, the remainder of the game belonged to Canada, with Schell’s exceptional performance stealing the spotlight.
Fiji’s replacement prop, Bulou Vasutaraga, received a red card, becoming the second woman in the tournament to be sent off after her yellow card for a dangerous high tackle was upgraded to a 20-minute red in the 69th minute.