Kaikohe's Portia Woodman scored a hattrick as the Black Ferns beat Ireland 38-8. Photo/Getty Images
Kaikohe's Portia Woodman scored a hattrick as the Black Ferns beat Ireland 38-8. Photo/Getty Images
Centre Portia Woodman scored a hat-trick of tries as the New Zealand women's rugby side unleashed a second-half blitzkrieg to thump Ireland 38-8 and complete their European tour unbeaten.
The Black Ferns score six tries to one, including the Northlander's treble, in the space of 18 minutes after having ledjust 5-3 at halftime.
New Zealand's superior speed was telling in the second spell, playing a vibrant brand of rugby which was harder to achieve in tight wins over England (25-20) and Canada (20-10).
It was more reminiscent of this year's double hammering of Australia at home, when they won 67-3 and 29-3.
Fullback Selica Winiata crossed early in both halves to continue an excellent tour before Woodman dominated the second spell.
The New Zealand sevens star, who has played most of her career on the wing, took advantage of a tiring Irish defence, turning a 10-3 lead into a 31-3 advantage with 10 minutes remaining.
First five-eighth Kelly Brazier crossed for New Zealand before winger Niamh Kavanagh had the final say for Ireland when the tourists were reduced to 14 players following a yellow card to reserve forward Jackie Fereti.
The test was the first between the nations since world No 5 Ireland's upset win at the 2014 World Cup, ending New Zealand's bid for a fifth straight crown.
