14 Aug 2014

Black Ferns bounce back

11:35 am on 14 August 2014

The New Zealand women's rugby team have restored some pride after failing to reach the semi-finals at a World Cup for the first time in history, winning their latest game in France.

Women's World Cup of Rugby. New Zealand versus United States of America. Claire Richardson (NZL) and Huriana Manuel (NZL) celebrate their try. 2014.

Womens World Cup of Rugby. New Zealand versus United States of America. Claire Richardson (NZL) and Huriana Manuel (NZL) celebrate their try. 2014. Photo: PHOTOSPORT

Women's World Cup of Rugby. New Zealand versus United States of America. Bui Baravilala ( USA ) and Honey Hireme (NZL). 2014.

Women's World Cup of Rugby. New Zealand versus United States of America. Bui Baravilala ( USA ) and Honey Hireme (NZL). 2014. Photo: PHOTOSPORT

The four-time champion Black Ferns bounced back from the disappointment of missing out on the chance to defend their title by trouncing Wales 63-7 in their first classification match.

The Black Ferns will next play Australia for fifth place.

England will face Canada in the final.

England crushed Ireland, who handed the Black Ferns just their second-ever World Cup defeat earlier in the tournament, 40-7, while Canada pipped hosts France 18-16 to advance to the title match.