Australia’s eight tries extend Scotland’s losing run to eight

Australia beat Scotland 56-12 in Sydney to hand them an eighth consecutive defeat, scoring eight tries in their WXV Global Series match. The result was Scotland’s fourth loss in the new competition, after defeats by Canada, New Zealand and Australia in their home fixtures. [1]

Scotland took an early lead when Katie Buchanan scored in the fifth minute, in her first international start. Australia levelled through Brittany Merlo in the 17th minute, then Maya Stewart put the hosts ahead six minutes later.

Australia pulled away after Scotland centre Meryl Smith was sent to the sin-bin. Desiree Miller, Amelia Whitaker and Ellis scored before half-time, making it 35-5. Miller added her second try soon after the break.

Scotland captain Rachel Malcolm replied near the line, with Helen Nelson converting. Whitaker scored again with 15 minutes left, and Eva Karpani completed Australia’s tally in the closing seconds after Scotland’s Eva Donaldson received a yellow card.

Australia had also beaten Scotland 30-10 in Edinburgh. That victory moved them above Scotland in the world rankings; they have now won both their matches against the Scots in the series, having lost to England and France. Scotland were led by caretaker head coach Dave Butcher, after Sarah Bonar withdrew shortly before kick-off because of illness. [1]