In a thrilling clash at Twickenham, the Red Roses of England emerged victorious over the world champions, New Zealand. Despite the comfortable win, there was a sense of frustration among the English team as they strive to maintain their high standards at the summit of women’s rugby.
The match served as a preparation for the upcoming WXV tournament, where England will defend their title. With over 40,000 supporters in attendance, the Red Roses put on a solid performance but acknowledged that there were areas for improvement in their precision and clinical finishing.
Head coach John Mitchell highlighted the key lesson of the day – the importance of capitalizing on opportunities and closing out games. Looking ahead to the next World Cup, England knows that they will face a tough challenge to avenge their loss to the Black Ferns in the previous tournament.
The match saw Abby Dow shine with a first-half try, showcasing her athleticism and skills on the wing. Other standout performances came from players like Abbie Ward and Alex Matthews, who excelled in their respective roles on the field.
Despite a strong start from New Zealand, England managed to maintain their lead with four tries, ultimately securing a 24-12 victory. The Black Ferns, led by co-captains Kennedy Tukuafu and Ruahei Demant, showed ambition and resilience throughout the game.
As the match progressed, the intensity waned, but the Red Roses held on to their lead. New Zealand’s Katelyn Vahaakolo scored two tries in the second half, highlighting their determination to make a comeback. However, England’s defense held firm, thwarting the Black Ferns’ efforts.
Looking ahead to the WXV tournament in Canada, England will face the United States and New Zealand again before a crucial showdown with the host nation. The team will need to address some selection quandaries, particularly in the outside center position, as they aim for more convincing performances.
In conclusion, the Red Roses’ victory over the world champions is a positive step as they continue their journey towards the next World Cup. With lessons learned and areas to improve upon, England remains focused on their goal of success on the international stage. The team’s performance at Twickenham sets the stage for an exciting and competitive season ahead.