Four-time defending champions New Zealand saw their hopes of a fifth successive women`s rugby World Cup title end on Saturday even before they play their final Pool B match later.
Ireland`s 40-5 thrashing of Kazakhstan earlier on Saturday at Marcoussis ensured they top Pool B and England`s 13-13 draw with Pool A rivals Canada sees them both finish on 12 points with the English topping the table by virtue of a better points difference.
A bonus point win for New Zealand over the United States would not be enough for them to claim the best runners-up spot who join the three pool winners in the semi-finals as Canada have 12 points and the Silver Ferns, six.
The Irish had dealt a bodyblow to New Zealand`s chances of adding a fifth crown to their tally when they beat them 17-14 on Tuesday -- their first defeat in the tournament since 1991.
Canada must wait to see the outcome of the Pool A game between Australia and France later on Saturday to see if they claim the best runner-up spot.
France currently have 10 points and Australia 8.
AFP
First Published: Saturday, August 9, 2014, 22:23