England have claimed their third Women’s Rugby World Cup title after defeating Canada 33-13 in a commanding final performance. With previous titles in 1994 and 2014, the Red Roses continue their legacy of excellence, becoming the only team to finish in the top three at every edition of the tournament. Only New Zealand, with six titles, have lifted the trophy more often.
The final saw England take control early, answering Canada’s opening try from Asia Hogan-Rochester in the 5th minute with a rapid response from Ellie Kildunne just three minutes later. Zoe Harrison’s pinpoint kicking and further tries from Amy Cokayne and Alex Matthews gave England a 21-8 halftime lead.
.jpg)
In the second half, Abbie Ward and Matthews added further tries for England, sealing the 20-point victory, the second largest margin in World Cup final history, behind New Zealand’s 44-12 win over the USA in 1998.
New Zealand, traditionally dominant, failed to reach the final for only the third time, instead beating France 42-26 in the Bronze Final. France, featuring in their seventh consecutive Bronze Final, suffered just their second loss at that stage.
Tournament debutants Brazil made history as the first South American team to compete, while England led the tournament in points scored (52.7 per game), tries (8.0), and defensive strength, conceding just 9.2 points per match.
New Zealand’s Braxton Sorensen-McGee finished with 11 tries, second only to Portia Woodman-Wickliffe’s 13 in 2017. England’s dominance in gainline success (76%) and metres per carry (4.9) capped off a near-perfect campaign.
 |
| TIGERS UNITED |
Comments
Post a Comment