Semi-final: New Zealand 19-34 CanadaSix-times champions out after consecutive title winsCanada always had a good chance of beating New Zealand in their Rugby World Cup semi-final no one anticipated them dominating the defending champions and playing them off of the park at times. This was a masterclass by Kévin Rouet’s team who used pace, patience and instincts to knock the Blacks Ferns out and book their spot in the final for just the second time. The match had already been picked out as one that would go down in history but the result certified that. Sophie de Goede excelled once again for Canada. Whether through breakdown turnovers, conversions or splicing through defence she was the linchpin in a fluid game from 1-15. The trust the team have in each other when they have front-foot ball allowed them to play with pure freedom that downed New Zealand and set up a final against England or France next Saturday. This is the first time since 2014 New Zealand will not be in the final, their first tournament loss since Ireland defeated them 11 years ago. It’s just the second semi-final New Zealand have lost and Canada’s second win against the Black Ferns. Canada, who crowdfunded their preparations for this tournament and are semi-professional, went in as underdogs, a title they will surely no longer be given after a performance for the ages.Ashton Gate was almost sold out and the tension was palpable. There were perfect conditions with no rain all day in the build-up and clear skies. Canada laid no challenge to the Haka, they just watched in a tight-knit line as the Black Ferns electrified the atmosphere. Continue reading...