The New Zealand women's rugby team has opened its World Cup campaign with a 44-12 win over Wales in Dublin.
Renee Wickliffe in a Sevens game against Papua New Guinea earlier this year. Photo: Photosport
The Black Ferns led 20-0 at half time and scored eight tries to two.
Fullback Selica Winiata chalked up three tries, while wing Renee Wickliffe scored twice and there was one each to centre Stacey Waaka, wing Portia Woodman and lock Eloise Blackwell.
Wales defended the New Zealand lineout well, while the Black Ferns were guilty of too many turnovers.
Selica Winiata said the win was a very positive start to the tournament.
"The girls were pumped to get out there today and play the first game."
"We've prepared for three years for this and the girls were hissing all week in training.
"There was a bit of excitement and at times we put pressure on ourselves."
We'll take some learning's and review the game but I definitely think it was a positive."
In the other game in their pool Canada beat Hong Kong 29-0.
Champions England beat Spain 56-5.
New Zealand's next game is against Hong Kong on Sunday night.
