Black Ferns power past USA in 2026 Pacific Four Series opener despite red card drama

The Black Ferns have kicked off their Pacific Four Series campaign with a commanding win over the United States, overcoming a fast start from the hosts and a second-half red card to underline their strength in the new era under coach Whitney Hansen.

New Zealand were tested early but pulled away after the break, showing their class with the ball in hand to seal a comfortable victory in Sacramento, California, on Sunday (NZT).

The USA struck first through powerful forward play, taking advantage of early pressure to cross and build a 15-19 contest by half-time. But once the Black Ferns found their rhythm, they proved too strong.

Winger Mererangi Paul was a standout, finishing with a hat-trick as New Zealand’s attack clicked into gear. Fullback Renee Holmes added a strong all-round performance including a try and several key kicks.

Captain Ruahei Demant led from the front in her milestone match (most-capped skipper - 36th), guiding the team around the park as the Ferns began to take control through quick ball and strong carries.

Upfront, the pack laid the platform with Maia Roos dominant at the lineout and Kaipo Olsen-Baker and Liana Mikaele-Tu’u carrying hard in tight exchanges.

There were big moments for the Black Ferns Pacific players. But they were both positive and costly.

Veisinia Mahutariki-Fakalelu put in a solid shift in the front row, while fellow Pacific players across both sides added physicality and flair to the contest.

Black Fern prop Tanya Kalounivale, second from right, performs the haka. She was sent off in the second half. Photo/Photosport/Luke Pearson

But it was another Pacific player who found herself at the centre of a key turning point. Black Fern reserve prop Tanya Kalounivale was sent off in the second half after a dangerous cleanout.

She was initially shown a yellow card before it was upgraded to a red. The dismissal came just as the visitors were trying to stay in touch and it proved a major blow.

Despite their numerical disadvantage earlier in the half when Mikaele-Tu’u was sin-binned for a high tackle, the Black Ferns responded with composure.

They ran in a series of tries through Holmes, Paul, and debutant Justine McGregor’s involvement in attacking plays, stretching the USA defence and taking full control of the match.

The Americans, who showed promise in the first half through players like Freda Tafuna and Katana Howard, struggled to maintain that intensity as errors crept in and tackles were missed.

For New Zealand, the result marks a strong start after a disappointing 2025 season and an encouraging first step under Hansen.

Captain Ruahei Demant led from the front in her milestone match (most-capped skipper: 36th), guiding the team around the park as the Ferns began to take control through quick ball and strong carries. Photo/Photosport/Luke Pearson

There is still work to do. Discipline will be a concern after multiple cards. But the signs are clear: the Black Ferns remain a force and their blend of experience and Pacific talent continues to shape their identity on the world stage.

They now turn their attention to a tougher challenge ahead with a highly anticipated clash against Canada next week.

For more details on the Pacific Four Series, click here.