Australia have booked a date with New Zealand in a replay of last year’s Sydney Sevens decider after both sides won their Sunday morning semi-finals.
The Black Ferns notched their 47th-straight victory, 29-5 over the United States, before the hosts survived a late comeback in a 24-12 win over Ireland at Spotless Stadium.
Ellia Green was the star for Australia, scoring a hat-trick and making a huge tackle in the second half to halt Ireland’s momentum.
The Black Ferns have gone unbeaten through five world series legs, a World Cup, Commonwealth Games and last week’s inaugural Fast Four on home turf since their last loss in Sydney 12 months ago.
Buoyed by their Sunday morning form, veteran Alicia Quirk says Australia’s new-look side is relishing the chance to have a crack at the world’s best.
“Having that win over them last year brings back good memories and confidence you can do that,” she said.
“We’ve got some new girls that haven’t had a chance to have a crack at them yet, so they’re fired up and excited.”
Australia jumped to a 19-0 halftime lead only for Ireland, in their first world series semi-final, to score twice and threaten to level inside the final two minutes.
Green snuffed out that charge though, laying a big tackle before shifting to the opposite wing and finishing another long-range effort in another standout performance.
“She’s just on fire; really enjoying this moment playing at home,” she said.
“She’s got her brother here watching for the first time so she’s got some added inspiration.”
New Zealand were close to flawless in their defeat of the US, even without injured playmaker Tyla Nathan-Wong.
But Australia’s ability to halt the Irish has given Quirk the belief that can end their Trans Tasman rivals’ incredible streak.
“There’s always a little quiet word from me out in the middle to remind them all to stick to the game plan,” she said.
“It’s good to know that even when teams put points on you that you’re able to put points back on them.”