Ruthless Second-Half Display Secures Canadian Dominance

Canada's women's rugby team unleashed a try-scoring masterclass against Fiji, with full-back Julia Schell etching her name in World Cup folklore through a 23-minute six-try rampage. The 65-7 demolition at York Community Stadium marked the tournament's most explosive individual performance since New Zealand's Portia Woodman in 2017.

Key Match Statistics

• 11 total tries scored by Canada
• 41-point second half explosion
• 83% territory dominance after halftime
• 6/8 conversions by Sophie de Goede

Schell's Historic Haul

The 28-year-old full-back transformed from support act to main protagonist, exploiting Fiji's defensive gaps with devastating line breaks and clinical finishing. Her performance drew comparisons to legendary winger Portia Woodman, though Schell modestly credited a spectator's $200 try-scoring wager as partial motivation.

"We needed that second-half response. When the space opened up, we knew how to punish them," Schell told BBC Sport post-match.

Tournament Implications

With England looming as potential final opponents, Canada demonstrated both flair and physicality:

1. Forward pack dominance: 78% scrum success rate
2. Defensive intensity: 92% tackle completion
3. Strategic depth: 8 substitutions used effectively

Canada's players celebrate another try in their World Cup opener

Injury Concerns Amid Triumph

While celebrating their biggest World Cup win since 2017, Canada lost wing Fancy Bermudez to a leg injury that could impact later stages. Coach Kevin Rouet emphasized: "We'll need full squad depth when facing top-tier nations."

Historical Context

• 4th consecutive World Cup with 50+ point Canadian victory
• 2nd all-time individual try tally in tournament history
• 8 World Cup appearances without title for Canada

With New Zealand and France awaiting in Pool B, this statement victory positions Canada as genuine title contenders while exposing Fiji's defensive frailties ahead of their clash with Wales.