The goal for the Women Eagles heading into the Atlanta 7s was to make the semi-finals and give themselves a chance to finish in the top four at the end of the season. They did more than that as they finished in second place and earned enough Series points to move up to fifth place just a few points behind France. Although they lost big to New Zealand in the final, the Black Ferns were the only team to beat them in the tournament, something notable as New Zealand haven't lost a match in over a year and have been the dominant team on the women's Series.
Portia Woodman was simply unstoppable in the final as she scored five tries in New Zealand's 50-12 win. The Black Ferns were up 24-0 at halftime and then quickly added to that in the second half (in the final each half is 10 minutes). Bui Baravilala had a fantastic try thanks to hard running from Kate Zackary while Hannah Lopez also scored for the Eagles.
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To reach the final the U.S. had to beat Russia in the semi-finals. The U.S. had beaten Russia in pool play the day before but Russia did enter their semi-final match having beaten England in the quarterfinals.
The U.S. had the advantage early in the match as Russia's Baizat Kahmidova was shown a yellow card just seconds into the match. They weren't able to take full advantage but a few minutes later Vix Folayan grabbed the first try. The U.S. then went into the break at 12-0 when Doyle intercepted a pass and ran it in for the score. Russia would score twice in the second half but a second try from Folayan would be enough for the Eagles to escape with the win.
With only three stops left on the Series, including one in the relatively friendly confines of Canada, the U.S. sit in a great position to crack the top four and automatic qualification for the World Cup. They sit just points behind France but must fend off England and Russia. The top three of New Zealand, Australia, and Canada look untouchable at this point. The U.S. are stiller eating for that level but have to be pleased they beat teams around them in the table.
Starters vs. New Zealand: Bonny, Johnson, Fa'Avesi, Baravilala, Folayan, Kelter, Doyle