The USA Falcons and Aussie Pearls met at the Silver Bowl Complex this morning for the teams’ third match, but it was called at the half. This afternoon’s game has been canceled and the teams will resume their series Sunday at 2:18 p.m. PST inside Sam Boyd Stadium.
The Pearls took a 7-0 lead when Sharni Williams broke away from mid-field for a try. With the stiff wind and uprights 30 degrees off center, the conversion was equally as impressive as the try.
The Falcons answered as Abby Gustaitis used her long reach to wrap a pass back inside to Kelli Smith to keep the drive moving. Kelsi Stockert nearly broke free up the middle, and a penalty followed shortly afterward. Gustaitis tapped through and again used those extra inches for the dive-over try, 7-5.
The Pearls won a one-on-one battle for a second try that ended the half, 12-5, and then Australia 7s coach Tim Walsh informed USA 7s coach Richie Walker that one of his players had received a severe leg gash from debris on the pitch. The Olympic gold medalists weren’t going to risk another injury, and a game of touch ensued. The 12 p.m. game was also canceled.
While the Silver Bowl fields have certainly been upgraded since the onset of the LVI, national teams should not have to comb the pitch for rocks and debris before their games. The teams will play a final game Sunday in the stadium.