Canada delivered a statement performance in Ottawa, defeating world champions England 31-22 to complete a 2-0 series sweep. The hosts dominated the attack, scoring five tries to England’s three, with captain Sophie de Goede starring in a hat-trick. This result marks the first time England has suffered consecutive defeats in a decade, compounding the shock of last weekend’s 24-21 loss in Toronto that snapped their 41-match unbeaten streak.
Sophie de Goede’s hat-trick seals 31-22 victory, ending Red Roses’ decade-long unbeaten run
The match statistics highlight Canada’s superior efficiency, as De Goede converted all three of her tries. England managed tries from Feaunati, Cokayne, and Sing, with Harrison and Sing providing conversions, but they could not overcome the hosts’ relentless pressure. The victory secures the WXV Series for Canada, following a 26-26 draw in Exeter in September, and underscores a significant shift in the balance of power in international women’s rugby.
England now faces a critical juncture as they prepare to travel to New Jersey for a match against the USA next Friday. The Red Roses are seeking to avoid three consecutive losses, a feat they have not achieved since 2013. With their world champion status under scrutiny, the upcoming fixture offers a crucial opportunity to stabilize their form and halt the historic slide in their recent record.
Source: BBC Sport
