England Crushes Samoa in Women’s Rugby World Cup, Setting New Records
In a historic encounter in Northampton, England, the women’s rugby team, the “Red Roses”, starred in a crushing performance against Samoa, securing a resounding victory with a score of 92-3. This triumph not only consolidated their position in the tournament, but also allowed them to break multiple records.
Before a crowd of 13,615 spectators at Franklin’s Gardens, the “Red Roses”, who started as clear favorites, demonstrated their superiority with 14 tries, including a hat-trick by Jess Breach. The impressive display surpassed their previous record for points scored in a World Cup, exceeding the 82-0 victory against Kazakhstan in 2010 and the 84-19 triumph against Fiji in 2022.
Helena Rowland, with eleven successful conversions and a try of her own, accumulated 27 points, surpassing the individual point record of an English player in a World Cup, previously established by Sue Day and Nicky Crawford.Jess Breach’s speed on the wing was a constant challenge for Samoa.
The match, from its inception, leaned in favor of England, pitting a professional team against a group of amateur players, many of whom had to take unpaid leave to participate in the World Cup. Despite Samoa’s determination and effort, the English team, with its experience and professionalism, imposed its game.
With Zoe Aldcroft out of action for the rest of the group stage, Maggie Packer led England, with Breach and Megan Jones as the only starting players from the team that faced the United States. Jones shone in the center, while the combination of Lucy Packer and Helena Rowland dismantled the Samoan defense. Breach, for her part, was a constant threat, securing three scores.
The first half unfolded as planned, with England scoring quickly. Although Samoa displayed a physical defense, they failed to make progress in attack. The first half culminated with England adding two more tries, thanks to Lark Atkin-Davies and Lucy Packer. Despite Samoa’s effort, they couldn’t convert any points.
Samoa’s highlight came with a penalty scored by Harmony Vatau, marking the first points of their participation in the World Cup.England’s goal of lifting the World Cup at home remains in place.
Breach continued his outstanding performance, scoring his second try. Mackenzie Carson also contributed, and Rowland surpassed 25 personal points. With the English bench in action, Marley Packer and Breach increased the score, with Breach achieving his third try. Moloney-Macdonald sealed the victory with a final try, and Rowland secured his place in the record books.
For Samoa, the defeat means elimination from the World Cup in the group stage. England, on the other hand, advances steadily and prepares to face Australia in Brighton next Saturday.
