Australia leave it late to sink Scotland

By Mark Stevens
16/10/22

Ashley Marsters scored a 74th minute converted try to condemn Scotland to a second Rugby World Cup defeat after a heartbreaking 14-12 loss against Australia in Whangarei.

Bryan Easson's side led 12-0 at half-time thanks to a Lana Skeldon score and a penalty try, but Australia turned things around after the break.Bienne Terita and Marsters both crossed for the Wallaroos, who finished a breathless game with 13 players.

Marsters, though, failed to see out the latter stages of the game as she was shown red for a head-on-head collision. She was soon joined on the sidelines by Adiana Talakai, who was also dismissed for a dangerous tackle.

Despite the numerical disadvantage, Australia - who included Exeter Chiefs back Lori Cramer in their starting line-up - were able to hold firm in the dying stages.

Cramer capped her first start of the tournament by converting both of her side’s tries.

Winless Scotland now have to beat hosts New Zealand next Saturday to keep their hopes of progression alive.