England's Commanding Victory

In a spectacular opening to the 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup, England delivered a powerful statement with an emphatic 69-7 victory over the United States. The match, held at Sunderland's Stadium of Light, attracted a record-breaking crowd of 42,723, setting the tone for what promises to be an unforgettable tournament.

Key Highlights

• Record Attendance: The game saw the highest attendance in Women's Rugby World Cup history, surpassing the previous record set in the 2022 final.
• England's Dominance: The Red Roses scored 11 tries, with standout performances from Ellie Kildunne, who was named Player of the Match, and Jess Breach, who scored a brace.
• USA's Resilience: Despite the heavy defeat, the USA showed moments of brilliance, particularly from Ilona Maher, whose powerful carries kept England's defense on their toes.

Match Breakdown

England's strategy was clear from the outset, with a focus on aggressive play and capitalizing on every opportunity. The first half saw England leading 28-7, with tries from Sadia Kabeya, Hannah Botterman, Maud Muir, and Ellie Kildunne. The USA managed to score through Erica Jarrell, but England's relentless pressure was too much to handle.

In the second half, England continued their dominance with tries from Abby Dow, Kildunne, Amy Cokayne, Jess Breach, and Lark Atkin-Davies. The Red Roses' bench also made significant contributions, with Emily Scarratt making history as the first England player to feature in five Rugby World Cups.

Post-Match Analysis

While England's performance was nearly flawless, there were areas for improvement, particularly in defense and kick-off receipts. However, these minor issues did not detract from their overall dominance. The match not only highlighted England's strength but also the growing popularity and support for women's rugby.

Looking Ahead

England's next challenge will be to maintain this level of performance throughout the tournament. With their sights set on the final at Twickenham on September 27, the Red Roses are determined to avoid the heartbreak of the 2022 World Cup final and secure the title.

This opening match was a celebration of rugby, showcasing the sport's evolution and the incredible talent on display. The 2025 Women's Rugby World Cup is off to a remarkable start, and fans can expect more thrilling encounters in the weeks to come.