Red Roses Face Consecutive Defeats as Canada Triumphs in WXV Clash
England's Red Roses suffer back-to-back losses for the first time in a decade, falling to Canada 31-22 in Ottawa, raising questions ahead of their next match against the USA.
In a surprising turn of events, England’s Red Roses have experienced consecutive defeats for the first time in ten years, as Canada secured a 31-22 victory in their WXV women’s rugby match held in Ottawa. This loss marks a significant moment in the history of the Red Roses, who have now lost three times in their last 74 matches.
Canada’s performance was nothing short of impressive, showcasing their growth as a serious contender for the World Cup trophy in 2029. The match was highlighted by captain Sophie de Goede, who not only scored a hat-trick but also demonstrated exceptional defensive skills throughout the game. Julie Omokhuale also made notable contributions, further solidifying Canada’s strong team performance.
England entered the match seeking redemption after their previous defeat but struggled to find their rhythm. Despite a promising start, the team’s performance became increasingly disjointed, leading to a disappointing outing. Captain Meg Jones, who celebrated her 30th birthday on match day, stood out in defence, while Maddie Feaunati also delivered a commendable performance.
Match Overview
- Canada’s Scorers: Omokhuale, De Goede (3), Bauder
- England’s Scorers: Feaunati, Cokayne, Sing
- Attendance: 13,117
The match began with a fierce intensity, but Canada quickly put England’s defence to the test. After a series of knock-ons and missed opportunities, England managed to score first through Feaunati. However, Canada responded with two quick tries, including a pivotal score from de Goede, which shifted the momentum in their favour.
As the match progressed, England’s attempts to regain control were thwarted by Canada’s robust defensive strategy. England’s decision to kick a penalty early in the second half highlighted their desperation for points. Although Amy Cokayne managed to score from a rolling maul, de Goede’s rapid succession of tries ultimately sealed the game for Canada.
Post-match, head coach John Mitchell expressed concerns regarding the officiating, particularly the lack of a connection to the television match official, which he felt could have impacted key decisions during the game. Despite the setback, England will look to regroup as they prepare for their final WXV match against the USA next Friday.
As Canada celebrates this significant victory, they will aim to build on this momentum in future tournaments, while England will be eager to bounce back and restore their formidable reputation in women’s rugby.
Source: This original report was produced by WTGO Newsroom using verified reporting from Guardian Rugby Union.