Meg Jones: The Semifinal Victory Was Exactly What We Needed
England center Meg Jones has expressed that the victory in the semi-final against France was “exactly what they needed” ahead of next week’s Women’s Rugby World Cup final.
The “Red Roses” secured their place in their seventh consecutive final with a 35-17 victory in Bristol. However, the score suggests a simpler encounter than it actually was for the hosts.
France dominated ball possession with 61%, and although England was more effective, they were forced to work hard for their successes, making 231 tackles against France’s 90.
Jones, who once again demonstrated his prowess with four recoveries, commented that this type of battle was just what his team needed before the final.
I asked the girls one thing: to choose with what intensity they were going to hit and inspire the person next to them. At 100%, I think that’s exactly what we needed. There will always be comments about how we play and how the game looks, but let me tell you that defense defines us.
Meg Jones
The image shows England preparing for the Women’s Rugby World Cup final against Canada.
Jones also added: “I think we have a lot of heart and desire on this team and we are also enjoying what we do. I hope you see the fun out there, there are good celebrations and we are trying to enjoy the game as much as we can.”
“The pressure is already great, let’s not make it any greater. Let’s just enjoy what it is.”
Canada awaits in next week’s main event, with the possibility of winning the World Cup at home in front of 80,000 fans at Twickenham, which is exciting for Jones.
“I was holding back the tears after the semi-final, because I think it’s everything we’ve built,” Jones said. “It’s huge for us. Honestly, I think the most important thing is to inspire a nation and girls and boys from all over the country, very proud of what we have built and what we continue to build.”
“We will enjoy the moment we have had together. There will be a lot of singing and we know that we will return to action (on Sunday), a great day of recovery, a great week ahead.”
“We’ve earned another week, and we’ll do it again.”
