Forty-one matches, nearly four years and one Rugby World Cup triumph, but the Red Roses' unbeaten streak is over. Amy Cokayne, who has 95 international caps, faced the press this week after England lost their first match since 2022 against Canada. "You can't dwell on it," said the Sale hooker. "We weren't a million miles away, so it's not like we have to completely throw the book out - nothing needs to massively change to the way we play."
As with every team in the women's game, England have dominated Canada in recent years. Before this autumn, the two teams had met seven times this decade, and England had won every match, with an average margin of nearly 22 points. That rivalry is nowhere near as comfortable now. After a 26-26 draw at Exeter's Sandy Park in September, Canada ended England's long unbeaten run with a 24-21 victory in Toronto on Friday.
Canada's progress has come on several fronts. At last year's World Cup, their dismantling of New Zealand in the semi-finals was the best display of any team in the tournament, with rapid-fire ruck speed and accurate handling. Head coach Kevin Rouet and several players have also gained experience in England's PWR, the strongest professional women's competition in the world, which Canada lacks at home. New talents such as number eight Lizzie Gibson, who made her Test debut in April, have added energy to the squad.
England, meanwhile, have been forced to blood new options. Captain Zoe Stratford, second rows Abbie Ward and Rosie Galligan, and back row Marlie Packer were all absent, and wing Abby Dow has retired. Beyond the on-pitch issues, the Red Roses may be facing a psychological challenge after years at the top of the women's game with few obvious goals left to chase. Their swift rally to defend their Six Nations title suggests they can respond, and the rematch in Ottawa on Friday offers a clear chance to do so.
Source: BBC Sport · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing