Red Roses suffer back-to-back defeats for first time in a decade as Canada make statement

• WXV: Canada 31-22 England

• England beaten in Ottawa for third loss in past 74 matches

History-makers, era-enders, giant-slayers. Last Friday’s breaking of England’s unbeaten run was a statement 31-22 win for Canada but backing it up to deal the Red Roses their first consecutive loss in a decade sends a formidable message to the rest of world rugby. Some may view it as too early to call but Canada are serious contenders for the World Cup trophy in 2029, especially if they progress at the same rate that their performances have improved in just a year from that World Cup final loss to England in 2025.

On a cold Ottawa night, the Canadians played with freedom and pace to down England once again. The captain Sophie de Goede laid bare why she is the reigning world player of the year with a hat-trick and some excellent defensive work and Julie Omokhuale also stood out among a good team performance.

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