England’s Red Roses dominate Black Ferns in WXV warm-up match
- England's Red Roses defeated the Black Ferns 24-12 in a warm-up match at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham.
- Abby Dow emphasized a defensive mindset shift that allowed the team to effectively shut down New Zealand's attack.
- The victory highlights England's focus on improving their defense ahead of the WXV tournament.
In a recent warm-up match at Allianz Stadium, Twickenham, England's women's rugby team, known as the Red Roses, achieved a notable victory over the world champion Black Ferns from New Zealand, winning 24-12. Despite not scoring after the 43rd minute, England's defense was a key factor in their success, showcasing a significant improvement in their defensive strategy. Abby Dow, a wing for the Red Roses, highlighted a shift in mindset that emphasized aggressive defense, encouraging players to take risks and disrupt the opposition's play. Dow explained that the team has been focusing on enhancing their defensive capabilities during the preseason, inspired by coach John Mitchell's philosophy of being proactive rather than reactive. This approach allowed the Red Roses to effectively neutralize New Zealand's attacking threats, particularly in the first 20 minutes of the match, where they managed to keep the Black Ferns scoreless. Mitchell acknowledged the importance of respecting the way New Zealand plays while also aiming to disrupt their rhythm. He emphasized the need for England to capitalize on opportunities and maintain pressure on their opponents. The match served as a crucial preparation for the upcoming WXV tournament, where England will face strong teams like the USA and Canada. As the Red Roses prepare for their next challenges, the focus will remain on refining their defensive strategies and building on the momentum gained from this victory. Mitchell is set to announce his 30-player squad soon, which will be pivotal for their performance in the upcoming matches in Vancouver and Langley.