Can Kildunne Lead England to Victory Over France in the Final?

The Women's Rugby World Cup semi-final saw England triumph over France with a score of 35-17, securing their spot in the final for the seventh consecutive time. Ellie Kildunne, who returned from injury, was instrumental in the victory, scoring two tries that showcased her remarkable skill and determination.

Last updated: 27 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• England's victory marked their seventh consecutive final appearance in the Women's Rugby World Cup.
• Ellie Kildunne scored two crucial tries, earning her the Player of the Match award.
• France, despite being underdogs, showcased strong performance and resilience throughout the match.
• The match featured key contributions from other players, including Amy Cokayne and Abbie Ward.
• England will need to address their errors to perform well in the final.

Match Overview

The semi-final was held in front of a raucous crowd of 25,478, who witnessed a gripping contest between England and France. The match saw England having to dig deeper than in their previous outings, with France showing tenacity and skill that kept them competitive throughout.

First Half Highlights

England started the match brightly, with Kildunne scoring the opening try just four minutes in. Her early score was a promising sign for the Red Roses, but France quickly responded, showcasing their own attacking prowess. France's Nassira Konde crossed for a try, making the score 7-5 at half-time in favour of England.

Despite England's lead, the first half revealed vulnerabilities in their game. Errors in handling and decision-making gifted France opportunities, and they capitalised on this, showing that they could threaten the English defence.

Second Half Surge

After the break, England appeared determined to assert their dominance. Their driving maul, a familiar tactic throughout the tournament, proved effective as Cokayne crossed for a try, extending their lead. Abbie Ward followed suit, adding to the scoreline and providing England with a buffer against a resilient French side.

Kildunne then struck again, demonstrating her remarkable agility. After pouncing on a loose ball from Carla Arbez, she darted through the French defence, scoring her second try and pushing the score to 28-12. This pivotal moment underscored her return to form and importance to the team.

France's Resilience

France's performance in this semi-final showcased their growth as a competitive side on the international stage. They remained within striking distance throughout the match, with Konde's second try highlighting their ability to respond under pressure. The French team displayed a mix of skill and determination, suggesting that they are a force to be reckoned with in future tournaments.

England's Final Preparations

With their place in the final secured, England must now reflect on areas of improvement. The match against France exposed some weaknesses that could be exploited by more experienced teams. The Red Roses will need to tighten their defensive structure and reduce unforced errors as they prepare for the ultimate challenge ahead.

Looking Ahead: The Final

The upcoming final promises to be an exhilarating encounter, with England aiming to add another World Cup title to their illustrious history. Their previous experience in high-pressure matches will be invaluable, but they must remain vigilant against any complacency.

As the tournament progresses, the focus will be on how England approaches the final and whether they can consolidate their status as the dominant force in women's rugby. The final will not only be a test of skills but also of mental resilience and tactical execution.

Conclusion

As England prepares for their next challenge, fans will be eager to see if they can continue their remarkable run in the Women's Rugby World Cup. The semi-final against France was a testament to their ability to rise to the occasion, and it sets the stage for a thrilling final. Will England claim victory and further solidify their legacy in women's rugby? Only time will tell.

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FAQs

Who were the top performers in the semi-final match?

Ellie Kildunne was the standout performer, scoring two tries and earning the Player of the Match award. Other key players included Amy Cokayne and Abbie Ward, who contributed significantly to England's victory.

What was the final score of the match?

The final score of the semi-final was England 35, France 17, securing England's place in the final.

How many times has England reached the Women's Rugby World Cup final?

England has now reached the Women's Rugby World Cup final seven consecutive times, showcasing their dominance in the tournament.

What challenges did England face during the semi-final?

England faced challenges with handling errors and defensive lapses that allowed France to gain possession and territory, particularly in the first half of the match.

What is next for France after this match?

France will likely focus on building their team for future tournaments, as their performance in the semi-final showed promise and areas where they can improve.