Red Roses suffer back-to-back defeats for first time in 10 years as Canada make statement

WXV: Canada 31-22 England England beaten in Ottawa for third loss in past 74 matches History-makers, era-enders, giant-slayers. Breaking England’s unbeaten run was a statement for Canada last Friday but they backed it up in a 31-22 win to deal the Red Roses their first consecutiv

WXV: Canada 31-22 England England beaten in Ottawa for third loss in past 74 matches History-makers, era-enders, giant-slayers. Breaking England’s unbeaten run was a statement for Canada last Friday but they backed it up in a 31-22 win to deal the Red Roses their first consecutive loss in a decade, sending a formidable message to the rest of world rugby. Some may view it as too early to call but Canada are serious contenders for the World Cup trophy in 2029, especially if they progress at the same rate that their performances have improved in just a year from that World Cup final loss to England in 2025.

On a cold Ottawa night, Canada played with freedom and pace to down England once again. The captain Sophie de Goede laid bare why she is the reigning world player of the year with a hat-trick and some excellent defensive work, and Julie Omokhuale also stood out among a good team performance. Continue reading...