Is there anything that can halt the Red Roses in their current form? This question was posed two years ago before New Zealand provided the answer in the Rugby World Cup final, where they ended England’s 30-match winning streak to claim the trophy. That match marked the last time England suffered a loss, and they are now on the rise again, securing their 19th consecutive victory with a commanding 49-31 win over the Black Ferns in the WXV 1. This has reignited the question of whether anyone can stop them.
The Black Ferns had a point to prove following consecutive defeats. The first was at the hands of the Red Roses, who triumphed over their rivals three weeks ago at Twickenham, and Ireland caused a significant upset with a narrow victory last Sunday. Despite the scoreline, New Zealand showcased their threat, particularly through No 8 Kaipo Olsen-Baker, who had an outstanding game. However, the lethal England back three of Ellie Kildunne, Abby Dow, and player of the match Jess Breach, who combined for seven tries, proved too formidable for the world champions.
England’s head coach, John Mitchell, noted: “We have evolved into a cohesive attacking unit, with everyone taking responsibility. Our ability to play on both sides of the ruck is evident.” New Zealand made a fierce start and repeatedly tested the English defense. The pressure led to a penalty, which the Black Ferns chose to convert into a scrum. Olsen-Baker broke away and bulldozed Natasha Hunt to score, reminiscent of Jonah Lomu’s iconic run over Mike Catt in the 1995 Rugby World Cup.
England swiftly responded, shifting the ball from left to right, with Kildunne finding Dow, whose speed leveled the scores. The game remained fast-paced, with both teams executing impressive attacking plays, but neither could capitalize until Breach crossed the line. Helena Rowland, given the kicking tee instead of Holly Aitchison, missed the conversion and had only two successful kicks. Kildunne scored next, followed by New Zealand’s Ayesha Leti-I’iga, who marked her return from injury with a try. Just before halftime, Kildunne scored again, putting England 22-12 ahead.
Dow extended England’s lead early in the second half, and Hunt’s clever charge down added another score. Breach’s additional try further solidified England’s dominance. New Zealand managed to swing momentum, forcing England to concede successive penalties. This led to prolonged possession, culminating in hooker Georgia Ponsonby dragging two defenders over the line to score. The physicality and pace remained relentless, with Olsen-Baker intercepting a pass by Aitchison and making a stunning break. New Zealand quickly recycled the ball, with Maiakawanakaulani Roos scoring. Tries from Breach, replacement Zoe Harrison, and New Zealand’s Maama Mo’onia Vaipulu rounded off the match, handing the Black Ferns their third consecutive defeat.
On how New Zealand can improve, co-captain Ruahei Demant stated: “We need to focus on skill development, which can be taught. For instance, signaling your receiver during breaks, instead of multiple voices, just one. I hope we can implement this in our training this week and deliver an 80-minute performance that we and our country can be proud of.” England’s victory sets up a WXV 1 trophy decider against Canada next week. England leads the table after defeating the USA, while Canada remains unbeaten with wins over France and Ireland.
