John Mitchell led England to their seventh consecutive Women’s Six Nations title.
The Red Roses clinched their seventh consecutive Six Nations title, following a close 43-42 victory against France at the Allianz Stadium. John Mitchell, England’s coach, described this match as “ideal” for his team ahead of the Rugby World Cup to be held this year.
England maintains an impressive streak of 25 unbeaten matches and secured their fourth consecutive Grand Slam with this one-point victory over France. The visitors complicated the match, bringing the score to a heart-stopping finish thanks to Joanna Grisez’s try, but England managed to maintain the lead.
The Red Roses scored seven tries in total, with Abby Dow (two), Emma Sing (two), Lark Atkin-Davies, Claudia MacDonald and captain Zoe Aldcroft as the scorers, although Mitchell expressed his disappointment with the team’s defense.
It was ideal for us. After a very good start, we could have overcome them, but they found energy through our defense and, when a French team gets that energy, they aim for success. That’s why we always talk about the fact that we probably had to win the match three or four times. I think we had to win it nine times.
John Mitchell
Mitchell also commented that his team must learn to deal with the intensity of the teams that raise their level when facing the favorites. He believes that England must find a way to raise their own game in the face of these challenges.
Sing had an outstanding performance at fullback, covering for the absence of Ellie Kildunne. Mitchell hopes that the experience of playing in front of a large crowd at Twickenham will be beneficial for his team ahead of the World Cup.
I think she had a very good start to the match, but, and she admitted it herself, you have to be in the game, after the action. And I think she probably learned a lot about how fast it is and how people close the space on her. But, very good for her.
John Mitchell
Aldcroft added that they learned a lot from this match. He highlighted the importance of clarity in the messages and that the team focused on their next objective. He also praised France’s game, highlighting their speed.
