The Australian women's rugby team has scored a record 68-12 victory over South Africa on the opening day of the 2006 IRB Women’s Rugby World Cup in Edmonton, Canada.

The Wallaroos ran in 10 tries to move to the top of their group which also includes France and the USA.

Wingers Ruan Sims and Tricia Brown ran in seven tries between them with Sims the first Wallaroo to score four tries in a match.

Australia dominated from the outset and scored after only seven minutes through fullback Tobie McGann, who converted her own try. Three more tries inside 15 minutes saw the Wallaroos lead 24-0 midway through the first half to put the game out of South Africa's reach.

Australia led 68-5 until a last-minute consolation try by reserve flyhalf Mandisa Williams put the South Africans into double figures.

The Wallaroos next game is against France, who defeated Ireland 43-0 in other first round action, on Monday (Tuesday morning AEST).

Australia will be boosted by the return of regular goal kicker Alana Thomas has recovered from a virus.

Australia 68
Tries : Ruan Sims 4, Tricia Brown 3, Tobie McGann 2, Kate Porter
Conversions McGann 3, Kelli Donnelly 3 cons
Penalties: McGann, Donnelly

South Africa 12
Tries: Zolisa Noxeke, Mandisa Williams
Conversions: Marijke Nel

(sportal)