John Mitchell Defends England’s Playing Style at the Women’s Rugby World Cup
England coach John Mitchell has expressed his indifference to criticism of his team’s playing style as they prepare for the World Cup semi-final against France at Ashton Gate.
Mitchell and forward Hannah Botterman insist that the Red Roses will not hesitate to use the strength of their maul and scrum.
Of the 38 tries scored by England in their four World Cup matches to date, 22 have been thanks to their relentless pack.
Mitchell doesn’t apologize for the direct approach, stating: “I really don’t care what others think”, but added that his team possesses a variety of tools to achieve their goals.
We have shown in the last three years that we can play in any way.
John Mitchell
Mitchell highlighted the importance of adapting to the game conditions. “If you look at the conditions we were exposed to last weekend, it would be pretty stupid not to use that strength and go for route one.”
Botterman, who returns to the first line after recovering from a back spasm, will be a key piece for England in their attempt to control the game against their Six Nations rivals.
The 26-year-old believes that scrum doesn’t get “the recognition we probably should in that area” and responded with a resounding “no” when asked if the Red Roses will deviate from their strengths.
Botterman emphasized the importance of the attacking game for the team. “Everyone understands how important the set-piece is. If we do our job in the scrum, line-out, maul, then the backs understand that gives them the best platform to play,” Botterman said.
Botterman is one of four changes to the team that beat Scotland 40-8, with fullback Ellie Kildunne, fly-half Zoe Harrison and lock Abbie Ward also starting.
