England’s remarkable 39-match winning run in women’s rugby union came to an end as the Red Roses were held to a 26-26 draw by Canada in a WXV Global Series clash at Sandy Park. Head coach John Mitchell’s side remain undefeated in 40 Tests, but a crowd of 14,573 witnessed the world champions fail to secure a victory in an international fixture for the first time since 2022.
How Canada Ended England’s Winning Streak at Sandy Park
Canada became the first team to avoid defeat against England since New Zealand won the 2022 World Cup final. The visitors matched the Red Roses try-for-try in a pulsating encounter in Exeter, crossing the line four times through Lizzie Gibson, DaLeaka Menin (who scored twice), and Olivia Apps. The draw also ended England’s 100% home record against Canada, halting a sequence of 13 previous victories on home soil.
“We were certainly in a ding dong, weren’t we?” England head coach John Mitchell said. “I thought we owned a lot of the second half. We were applying huge pressure but we just didn’t convert.”
Did you know? Exeter winger Claudia Moloney-MacDonald crossed twice for England in the first half, while teammates Hannah Botterman and Bryony Field also added tries, but the hosts’ late attacking pressure was ultimately stifled by stubborn Canadian goal-line defence and a crucial ruck turnover.
Tactical Breakdown and Key Player Performances
Canada applied intense early pressure using close-quarter pick-and-go tactics. No. 8 Lizzie Gibson and prop DaLeaka Menin both capitalized on driving power in the opening quarter. England countered through Moloney-MacDonald and a barging score from Hannah Botterman. Despite England’s efforts to quicken their team tempo under Mitchell’s game plan, Canada’s defensive resilience kept Ellie Kildunne isolated out wide.
Canada also had a brilliant 45-metre solo try by Asia Hogan-Rochester disallowed due to a marginal forward pass in the first half. Down the stretch, Sophie de Goede orchestrated a blistering 20-metre break that set up Olivia Apps to score under the posts, keeping the pressure squarely on the hosts.
What Comes Next in the WXV Series
England captain Meg Jones reflected positively on the competitive test after the match. “It was amazing Test-match rugby, which is what we want. We want a battle and for it to be competitive,” Jones said. “We have another two shots at them and get to go again next week.”
Both teams will resume their rivalry across the Atlantic with two upcoming Tests in Canada in October. Before travelling overseas, England is scheduled to face New Zealand at Allianz Stadium in Twickenham on Saturday, 26 September.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score between England and Canada?
The match ended in a 26-26 draw, with both teams scoring four tries apiece.
Why did England’s winning streak end?
England’s 39-match winning run concluded because a highly disciplined Canada side matched them score-for-score, successfully defending their try line through the closing stages of the match at Sandy Park.
Who are the teams playing next?
England’s next fixture is against New Zealand at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham, before both England and Canada play two further WXV series Tests in Canada.
Worth a look