England Advances to the Women’s Rugby World Cup Final After an Exciting Duel Against France
England secured their place in the Women’s Rugby World Cup final for the seventh consecutive time, after a semi-final match full of emotion and nerves against France, with a final score of 35-17.
The match lived up to the expectations of a tournament that craved this type of confrontation. Although there were moments of tension for the “Red Roses”, the audience present at Ashton Gate remained on the edge of their seats, enjoying a high-level sporting spectacle that anticipates a promising final against Canada.
The expectations of an easy game for the English fans were quickly dispelled, as France demonstrated their determination from the start.
The home team initially seemed to be heading for victory thanks to the outstanding performance of Ellie Kildunne, who with her speed and skill left the French defenders behind to score a try.Amy Cokayne celebrates a tryFrance’s reaction was immediate, complicating the hosts’ game with a strong physical presence. They were rewarded in the 23rd minute, with Nassira Konde scoring a try after a well-executed strategy.
Despite England’s attempts to extend their lead, errors in ball handling frustrated their advances. France, for its part, had a try disallowed for a forward pass, but demonstrated its ability to respond.
Key players like Meg Jones and Kildunne stood out individually, but the pressure on the scoreboard was palpable, with England leading by only two points at halftime.
The second half started strongly for England, who quickly got a second try thanks to Amy Cokayne, consolidating their dominance in the game.
The intensity of the match remained high, with moments of tension and confrontations. France, far from giving up, responded with a try by Joanna Grisez, closing the gap in the score.
England showed their quality, but French resistance forced the English to give their all. The changes made brought fresh energy, proving crucial in the final minutes. Natasha Hunt, with a quick play, boosted England’s attack, culminating in a try by Abby Ward.
Kildunne shone again, scoring another spectacular try. France responded with another try from Konde, but it was too late. Jones closed the scoring with a try that celebrated England’s qualification for the final.
