The center of England, Meg Jones, has acknowledged 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 an easier afternoon than it actually was for the hosts.
France dominated possession with 61%, and although England was more effective, they were forced to work hard to achieve their successes, making 231 tackles against France’s 90.
Jones, who was as always destructive with four rebounds, stated that this type of battle was what her team was looking for before the final.
I asked the girls for one thing, and it was to choose with what force they were going to hit and inspire the person next to them. One hundred percent, I think 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 this defensive set defines us.
Meg Jones
The Women’s Rugby World Cup final will pit England against Canada.
“I think we have a lot of heart and desire in 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 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, something 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 we will return to it on Sunday, a great day of recovery, a great week ahead.
We’ve earned another week, and we’ll try again.”
