England center Meg Jones has acknowledged that the victory in the semi-final against France was exactly what her team 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, although the score suggests the match was easier than it actually was.
France dominated possession with 61%, and although England was more effective, they were forced to work hard to achieve their successes, making 231 tackles compared to France’s 90.
Jones, who had an outstanding performance with four ball recoveries, stated that this type of battle was what his team was looking for before the final.
I asked the girls for one thing, and it was that they choose with what intensity they were going to hit and inspire the person next to them. 100% I believe that’s exactly what we needed. Everyone is always going to comment on how we play and how the game looks, but let me tell you that defense defines us.
Meg Jones
The Women’s Rugby World Cup in England will see Canada in the final.
“I think we have a lot of heart and desire in this team and we are also enjoying what we are doing. Hopefully, you will see the fun 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 it for 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 worked towards,” Jones said. “It’s huge for us. Honestly, I think our most important goal is to inspire a nation and girls and boys across the country, very proud of what we have built and what we continue to build.”
“We will enjoy the moment we’ve had together. There will be a lot of singing and we know 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.”
