Wallaroos make changes for USA clash following loss to Black Ferns

Coach Jay Tregonning has made two changes to his starting side to face the USA as the Wallaroos look to build on their promising start to the Pacific Four rugby tournament in New Zealand.

The Australian women went down 23-10 against the Black Ferns in the opening match but led at halftime for the first time in their playing history.

Tregonning has named two new faces to take on the Americans on Saturday in Auckland, with Rebels hooker Ashley Marsters replacing Adiana Talakai, who has a knee injury.

Aotearoa Rugby Pod | Episode 17

Aotearoa Rugby Pod | Episode 17

Brumbies winger Jemima McCalman gets her first start with Ivania Wong also injured.

Hooker Tiarna Molloy has come on to the bench, now in line to make her join Reds teammates Annabelle Codey and Cecilia Smith who earned their first cap last week.

“Despite the result, we were quite impressed with the team’s performance last week against New Zealand,” Tregonning said on Friday.

“We’ve picked up a few bumps and bruises along the way – thankfully we can cover it with the depth we have in this current squad.

“There are a few players that will now get the opportunity to make a mark straight from the kick-off and I know they are extremely eager to make an impact and keep that starting jersey.”

Canada and New Zealand will meet in the early game at The Trusts Arena after both winning on Monday.

WALLAROOS TEAM

Lori Cramer, Mahalia Murphy, Georgina Friedrichs, Pauline Piliae-Rasabale, Jemima McCalman, Trilleen Pomare,  Iliseva Batibasaga, Grace Hamilton, Shannon Parry (c), Emily Chancellor, Kaitlan Leaney, Michaela Leonard, Bridie O’Gorman, Ashley Marsters, Liz Patu. Res: Tiarna Molloy, Madison Schuck, Asoiva (Eva) Karpani , Annabelle Codey, Piper Duck – NSW Waratahs, Layne Morgan, Cecilia Smith, Arabella McKenzie