China, playing in only their second international since 2011, won the Asia Rugby Women’s Division 1 title with a 68-0 victory over the Philippines.
Having beaten Singapore in their first match, China continued their fine form and will now face Kazakhstan for a spot in next year’s Asia Rugby Women’s Championship.
The winner of that tournament will qualify for the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2021, and China will be buoyed by their performances in Manila.
In the final Chen Yuqian, who scored a hat-trick in their win over Singapore, opened the scoring for the eventual winners.
Fixtures and Results >>>>> #ARWC2019D1
YuanYua Lu showing excellent speed and power for their second before Yan Zhou and Weiyan Wang added further tries as China took a healthy lead into the break.
China continued to add further scores in the second half as their bench impressed with replacement Zhaoxue Zhai crossing twice to ensure the impressive victory.
World Rugby Council Member and Philippines hooker Ada Milby was proud of her side despite the defeat.
“China were a really strong side, and I wish them well as the pathway to Women’s Rugby World Cup continues,” explained Milby.
🏆CHAMPIONS🏆@CRFAChinaRugby take a step closer to Women's @rugbyworldcup with a 68-0 win over @PhilippineRugby in the final of #ARWC Division 1 pic.twitter.com/Cc3Tb4KBJF
— Asia Rugby (@asiarugby) June 22, 2019
“I am proud of our girls though, we fought right until the end. I am also proud of the fans who stuck with us throughout.
“It was not the result we wanted but it was a great tournament to be a part of. I also want to congratulate India on their first win.”
