Tyler Ardron Leads Canada to Stunning Win Over U.S. in Rugby Return
What a night it was in Calgary as Canadian rugby fans witnessed something truly special. Tyler Ardron, the former captain of Canada’s men’s rugby team, made a powerful return to the national side after nearly four years away—and he didn’t just come back quietly. He stormed onto the field at McMahon Stadium and scored four tries, lifting Canada to a 34–20 victory over the United States in the opening match of the Pacific Nations Cup.
This wasn’t just another game. For Canada, ranked 25th in the world, it was a statement. They hadn’t beaten their rivals to the south in years, and recent form had been bleak, with a string of tough losses. But with Ardron back in the lineup, wearing Canadian red for the first time since 2021, the team looked sharper, hungrier, and more disciplined. By halftime, the match was tied at 17–17, but Canada’s second-half surge told the real story. Seventeen unanswered points and a relentless defensive effort gave them the kind of win they’ve been desperately searching for.
Also Read:Ardron’s impact was undeniable. He had a hat trick before halftime, showing the same power and leadership that made him captain at both the 2015 and 2019 World Cups. His fourth try, coming in the 57th minute, pushed Canada ahead for good. Fullback Peter Nelson added to the fireworks with a brilliant solo try of his own, chasing down a grubber kick to seal the result. Nelson also handled the kicking duties, adding three conversions and a penalty.
The Americans had their moments, scoring through Dominic Besag and Rufus McLean, with fly half A.J. MacGinty keeping them in the contest early. But a yellow card to MacGinty in the second half left the U.S. shorthanded, and Canada took full advantage. The Canadians dominated the set-piece battles, especially at the lineouts, and kept their composure by avoiding unnecessary penalties.
This victory was more than just numbers on a scoreboard. It marked the first win for Canada under new head coach Steve Meehan, who took over after Kingsley Jones stepped down late last year. Meehan had opened his tenure with narrow losses to Belgium and Spain, so this result felt like a breakthrough. He praised the players afterward, saying they delivered on everything asked of them and deserved to enjoy the moment.
For Canadian fans, the setting carried its own weight. It was the first men’s national team match at McMahon Stadium since 2017, and the crowd got a performance worth waiting for. Canada, which had missed out on the 2023 World Cup, is now aiming to re-establish itself on the world stage. The Pacific Nations Cup offers that path—three teams will qualify directly for the 2027 tournament in Australia.
With a historic win now under their belt, and with veterans like Ardron stepping back into the fold, Canada has reignited belief. The next challenge will be Japan in Sendai, and while the road ahead won’t be easy, this victory showed that the fight for a World Cup spot is well and truly alive.
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