The Black Ferns squad gathered in a huddle on the pitch for an extended discussion at the end of that half, Ruahei Demant, Kennedy Tukuafu and their other leaders delivering a few key messages. New Zealand have been played off the park, really, so far, one excellent score from Stacey Waaka’s reclaimed restart all they have to show from a half that Canada controlled.

The Black Ferns have a habit of finding a way at World Cups but this has been a supremely well-coached Canadian performance – zero penalties conceded is a stat that sums up a super smart showing, particularly defensively.

Canada take no chances and Alexandra Tessier kicks the ball out despite them having the ball inside the New Zealand half.

But wow that was a sumptuous, dominant half from Canada. They have been the superior side, scoring four tries against the defending champions!

New Zealand require a 17-point comeback if they are to keep their unbeaten run alive.

There’s another knock-on from New Zealand, this time from Kaipo Olsen-Baker.

It gives Canada a final opportunity as we tick into the red. They get another penalty too.

38 mins: Justine Pelletier is looking menacing again before half time and Canada sniff the chance for a fifth try of a brilliant half.

Hogan-Rochester gets the ball in hand but keeps it alive. DaLeaka Menin picks up the charge, but it then comes back for a knock-on. New Zealand have the penalty and will want to just get into half time.

WHAT A TRY THIS IS FOR CANADA! The off-load comes from the ground and the improvisation of Justine Pelletier, who pops it up for Sophie de Goede to run onto and carry over the line!

De Goede adds the conversion. She does it all! But that was genius from Pelletier.

And look at that scoreline! A 21-point lead before half time.

34 mins: A few handling errors adding up on both sides. Canada’s Asia Hogan-Rochester is forced out of play on the wing.

30 mins: New Zealand have woken up! Kaipo Olsen-Baker carries through the middle and there looks to be an avenue out on the wing. But the pass goes forward and out of play.

27 mins: Holmes adds the conversion and New Zealand’s tails are up straight away from kick-off.

26 mins: New Zealand strike back! The starting kick-off is collected brilliantly on the wing by Stacey Waaka, with the hooker Georgia Ponsonby making the crucial breakthrough towards the line.

New Zealand power over the line, with Tanya Kalounivale carrying over. New Zealand were not going to give up without a fight.

Canada fight for the line! The pick-and-go game is in full flow but New Zealand stand strong on the try-line.

But after 14 phases, Canada find the space out wide and spot Florence Symonds open! How about this! A third try without reply!

De Goede’s attempt at the conversion strikes the post.