Autumn Internationals – 4 The Love Of Sport http://4theloveofsport.co.uk Champions Of Women's Sport Mon, 25 Nov 2024 20:26:42 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=5.1.16 http://4theloveofsport.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/cropped-4tlos-iconw-32x32.png Autumn Internationals – 4 The Love Of Sport http://4theloveofsport.co.uk 32 32 A Rare Weekend ahead – Seven Test Matches to enjoy http://4theloveofsport.co.uk/2021/11/11/a-rare-weekend-ahead-seven-test-matches-to-enjoy/ Thu, 11 Nov 2021 11:45:54 +0000 http://4theloveofsport.co.uk/?p=40975 Continue Reading →

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This weekend sees the four top-ranked sides in the world meeting in combat:

Saturday: France v New Zealand, Pau
Sunday: England v Canada, Twickenham Stoop

As proof of how international rugby is thriving post-lockdown here are the other tests taking place:

Ireland v USA
Namibia v Zambia
Scotland v Japan
Switzerland v Czechia
Wales v South Africa

France v New Zealand

The really crucial match takes place in southern France. The Black Ferns have to get their tour back on track after two heavy defeats. France are above all ambitious; their eyes are fixed firmly on the World Cup where they want to set the record straight.

I mentioned the regretted absence of Rose Bernardou from their front row (http://4theloveofsport.co.uk/2021/11/09/half-time-talk-a-glance-across-six-nations/), but the Ferns’ performance at the set-scrum was less than convincing against England. For once, the Red Rose pack was not put under heavy pressure.

If les Bleues can ensure the same degree of set-piece possession then they have the creativity out behind to cause mischief in the visitors’ defensive patterns

As with the Northampton game, the question is how far the Black Ferns can advance in a week. The answer there was not nearly far enough; they shipped even more points than at Exeter. Management and team leaders have a job on hand to keep confidence levels high.

For players not used to regular high-level competition it may prove no easier to raise their game a third time. They have match winners, but in crucial areas like the line-out they can’t be sure of accident-proof possession.

The game is there for France to win.

England v Canada

The Maple Leafs won their two games against the USA, but understandably looked well short of their usual high standards. They will have their work cut out to hold the Red Roses, though they are the toughest customers and have made the hosts work very hard in recent encounters.

Their pack should prove stronger than New Zealand’s, but they are still deprived of Cindy Nelles.

The tempo of the Stoop game will be considerably higher than the two at Glendale. It should prove too much for the visitors in the last quarter.

Ireland v USA

Both teams have been announced;

Ireland
15. Lauren Delany (Sale Sharks, 16 caps); 14. Laura Sheehan (Exeter Chiefs, 4); 13. Eimear Considine (UL Bohemians, 21); 12. Sene Naoupu (Old Belvedere, 44); 11. Beibhinn Parsons (Blackrock College, 14); 10. Stacey Flood (Railway Union, 6); 9. Ailsa Hughes (Railway Union, 12); 1. Lindsay Peat (Railway Union, 37); 2. Cliodhna Moloney (Wasps, 29); 3. Leah Lyons (Sale Sharks, 27); 4. Nichola Fryday (Blackrock College, 21); 5. Sam Monaghan (Wasps, 3); 6. Ciara Griffin (captain, UL Bohemians, 39);7. Edel McMahon (Wasps, 12); 8. Anna Caplice (Gloucester-Hartpury, 14).

Bench:
16. Neve Jones (Malone, 4);17. Katie O’Dwyer (Railway Union, 3); 18. Linda Djougang (ASM Romagnat, 15); 19. Hannah O’Connor (Blackrock College, 5) 20. Maeve Óg O’Leary (Blackrock College, uncapped); 21. Kathryn Dane (Old Belvedere, 16); 22. Eve Higgins (Railway Union, 5); 23. Amee-Leigh Murphy Crowe (Railway Union, 5)

USA Eagles:
1. Catie Benson (Sale); 2. Saher Hamdan (Life University); 3. Hope Rogers (Life West Gladiatrix);
4. Kristine Sommer (Gloucester-Hartpury); 5. Alycia Washington (Worcester Warriors); 6. Rachel Ehrecke (Colorado Gray Wolves); 7. Rachel Johnson (Exeter); 8. Kate Zackary (captain, Exeter); 9. Carly Waters (Saracens); 10. Megan Foster (San Diego Surfers); 11. Bulou Mataitoga (Berkeley All Blues); 12. Katana Howard (Sale);13. Amy Talei Bonte (Gloucester-Hartpury);14. Tess Feury (New York); 15. Kayla Canett (USA Sevens)

Bench:
16. Kathryn Treder (Beantown); 17. Maya Learned (Gloucester-Hartpury); 8. Nick James (Sale); 19. Hallie Taufoou (Colorado Gray Wolves); 20. Elizabeth Cairns (Life West Gladiatrix); 21. Olivia Ortiz (Davenport & Chicago North Shore);22. McKenzie Hawkins (Colorado Gray Wolves); 23. Sarah Levy (USA Sevens)

They are weakened by the return of Ilona Maher and Alev Kelter to the US 7s squad to prepare for the HSBC World Series, and by the injuries to Gabby Cantorna and Joanna Kitlinski.

They face an Irish side that will be extra motivated by the Anthony Eddy interview (http://4theloveofsport.co.uk/2021/11/09/an-irish-interview/ ) and its after-effects.

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Half-time Talk – A Glance across six Nations http://4theloveofsport.co.uk/2021/11/09/half-time-talk-a-glance-across-six-nations/ http://4theloveofsport.co.uk/2021/11/09/half-time-talk-a-glance-across-six-nations/#comments Tue, 09 Nov 2021 12:26:41 +0000 http://4theloveofsport.co.uk/?p=40949 Continue Reading →

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The Black Ferns are halfway through their European tour.

On Saturday they will face the French in the first of two encounters that might just see a toppling of the world order.

Despite first appearances the pandemic has done the Kiwis few favours. New Zealand was the first nation to restart rugby after lockdown; the latest edition of the Farah Palmer Cup seemed to leave them well ahead in pre-World Cup preparations.

It hasn’t worked out like that.

Glenn Moore brought large numbers of uncapped players over to gain experience. It isn’t immediately obvious why so many were needed. Simon Middleton also introduced eleven debutants into his training squad, but only two received a first cap, Holly Aitchison, a highly gifted Sevens players, and Maud Muir, the young prop, the latest candidate to occupy the crucial position of tight-head.

The analysts will be providing Moore with match details hidden from mere mortals. These, added to his own view of the Northampton game, will define who has the right to play their third test match in three weeks.

With huge crowds to roar them on, the French will take some beating. They have the advantage of two recent wins (see below); they won’t need to rewrite history. But one or preferably two victories would be a great send-off for the new year, and a chance at last to reach a World Cup final.

With the Black Ferns in some disarray they can hardly have a better chance of doing the double over the world champions.

It was a surprise, to say the least, to see the Ferns so easily dispossessed and outmanoeuvred in their recent games. We tend to assume that all New Zealanders are born with certain instinctive gifts that make them next to unbeatable on the rugby field.

Of course the tour is largely a training ground for the RWC to come. Even so, the gap in basic skills between the Ferns and the Red Roses was an eye-opener.

The return of Portia Woodman for the second match was widely heralded. She hadn’t played a single test since the previous RWC final and it showed. Her first touch of the ball at Northampton saw it drop behind her.

France

France have had to make two changes from the side that beat South Africa last weekend. Marjorie Mayans and Rose Bernardou are declared unfit. With all due respect to Mayans, the French Queen of the Tackle, it is Bernardou’s absence that the team will feel keenest. Only six caps into her career, she has already proved herself a real anchor in the No 3 shirt.

Into the squad come Célia Domain (Blagnac, prop) and Manaé Feleu (Grenoble Amazones, back-row).

In their preparations the French have followed England’s practice by inviting a top referee to oversee match simulations, in their case, Aurélie Groizeleau.

This is a really big opportunity for France. The two games in Pau and Castres have taken on even more savour after the events at Exeter and Northampton.

The last thing the Ferns imagined doing was returning home winless, but the last three matches between the nations ranked second and fourth in the world, look like this:

Toulon : France 0 NZ 14
Grenoble : France 30 NZ 27
San Diego : NZ 16 France 25

Know Your Referee

Aurélie Groizeleau had refereed England five times before, New Zealand never. Perhaps it showed. The Red Roses will have been familiar with what are known the ref’s funny little ways. Certainly the Ferns suffered many blasts of the whistle.

The two referees this time round will be Aimee Barrett-Theron, who didn’t have her finest match at Exeter, and Hollie Davidson.

France v South Africa

The contest in Vannes between France and South Africa was a splendid occasion. Though the French won comfortably 46-3, the Springboks made a great impression on the big crowd, highlighted by a communal dance post-match.

They travel on Thursday to meet Wales at the Arms Park on Saturday. Stanley Raubenheimer will announce his team as they arrive.

England

Ignoring all the flag-waving of two fine victories, Simon Middleton was careful to highlight shortcomings in the Red Roses’ displays. Understandably they were limited to the back play. The forwards have been close to faultless; the selectors are still searching for the perfect balance out behind.

The two centres at Northampton, Aitchison and Helena Rowland, are two outstanding prospects, both fine Sevens players. Every time they received the ball last Sunday, the Black Ferns were left guessing their intentions; they are such instinctive players. English fans can be grateful they opted to switch back to Fifteens. But it will take time for them to settle into new patterns of play.

As for shortcomings: there were three (unnecessary?) cut-out passes at Franklin’s Gardens that missed their target. More important, the defensive line was found wanting a few times. Ellie Kildunne is still learning the advanced lessons of positional play at the back; covering the width of the field is no easy matter. In both games, the Ferns were able to outsmart the English backs with their decision-making and handling.

The joy of the current English set-up is the unpredictability of the back-play. Twice in the opening minutes of the second match Rowland made huge ground by quite different methods. Refreshing to see.

Now for the Canadians.

But first…

The next item on the list is the game between Ireland and the USA on Friday 12 November. The RDS Stadium Dublin will play host for the first time.

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Ireland Squad for Autumn Internationals 2021 http://4theloveofsport.co.uk/2021/10/28/ireland-squad-for-autumn-internationals-2021/ Thu, 28 Oct 2021 11:45:07 +0000 http://4theloveofsport.co.uk/?p=40811 Continue Reading →

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Adam Griggs has announced the names of 33 players to represent Ireland for their two tests against the USA and Japan.

Ciara Griffin (captain, UL Bohemians, Munster)
Kathryn Dane (Old Belvedere, Ulster)
Ailsa Hughes (Railway Union, Leinster)
Stacey Flood (Railway Union, Leinster)
Enya Breen (UL Bohemians, Munster)
Sene Naoupu (Old Belvedere, Leinster)
Eve Higgins (Railway Union, Leinster)
Shannon Touhey (Galwegians, Connacht)
*
Alana McInerney (UL Bohemians, Munster)
*
Eimear Considine (UL Bohemians, Munster)
Aoife Doyle (Railway Union, Munster)
Laura Sheehan (Exeter Chiefs, IQ Rugby)
Lauren Delany (Sale Sharks, IQ Rugby)
Ella Roberts (Wicklow, Leinster)
*
Beibhinn Parsons (Blackrock College, Connacht)
Amee-Leigh Murphy Crowe (Railway Union, Munster)
Lindsay Peat (Railway Union, Leinster)
Laura Feely (Blackrock College, Connacht)
Katie O’Dwyer (Railway Union, Leinster)
Chloe Pearse (UL Bohemians, Munster)
Linda Djougang (Old Belvedere, Leinster)
Leah Lyons (Sale Sharks, IQ Rugby)
Mary Healy (Suttonians, Leinster)
*
Neve Jones (Malone, Ulster)
Cliodhna Moloney (Wasps, IQ Rugby)
Nichola Fryday (Blackrock College, Connacht)
Aoife McDermott (Railway Union, Leinster)
Sam Monaghan (Wasps, IQ Rugby)
Grace Browne Moran (Galwegians, Connacht)
*
Anna Caplice (Gloucester-Hartpury, IQ Rugby)
Hannah O’Connor (Blackrock College, Leinster)
Edel McMahon (Wasps, IQ Rugby)
Maeve Og O’Leary (Blackrock College, Munster) *

* Uncapped

In a total of 33 there are 15 backs and 18 forwards.

Ireland are in the unenviable position of being the only home nation without a chance of going to New Zealand next September. But the show must go on. Players will want to impress a new management team due to take over after this series, as well as doing their nation, their family and friends and themselves proud.

Success and failure are very close bedfellows.

The IRFU has just announced names for Ireland’s male Under-19, Under-18 Clubs and Under-18 Schools squads. There are no parallel lists for women and girls. Is that not a cause of the nation’s recent misfortune?

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Autumn Internationals – Referee Appointments http://4theloveofsport.co.uk/2021/10/18/autumn-internationals-referee-appointments/ Mon, 18 Oct 2021 13:03:48 +0000 http://4theloveofsport.co.uk/?p=40711 Continue Reading →

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World Rugby has given an early posting of the appointments to sixteen international matches to be played this autumn.

Pride of place goes to Aimee Barrett-Theron who is given the honour of controlling the first of the two clashes between the top two-ranked nations, then the first of the France-New Zealand encounters.

It is a pity that travel restrictions prevent the two Canada-USA matches that form the opening of the Pacific Four Series from being covered by neutral referees. But WR has chosen the next best option, alternate Canadian and American whistlers. It is excellent to see Julianne Zussman, so recently a distinguished full-back for the Maple Leafs, charged with the first meeting.

Clara Munarini, who survived the unforgettable snowstorm at Murrayfield last year, is given the honour of taking the first game the Barbarians have ever hosted at Twickenham.

One new name below is Maria Latos of Germany. She has been involved in Rugby Europe appointments for some years, and now advances to the top level.

England v New Zealand
Sandy Park, Exeter, Sunday 31 October 2021
Referee: Aimee Barrett-Theron (SARU)
ARs: Aurelie Groizeleau (FFR) and Clara Munarini (FIR)
TMO: Ben Whitehouse (WRU)

France v South Africa
Stade de la Rabine, Vannes, Saturday 6 November 2021
Referee: Sara Cox (RFU)
ARs: Hollie Davidson (SRU) and Katherine Ritchie (RFU)
TMO: Claire Hodnett (RFU)

Wales v Japan
Cardiff Arms Park, Cardiff, Sunday 7 November 2021
Referee: Clara Munarini (FIR)
ARs: Maria Beatrice Benvenuti (FIR) and Maria Giovanna Pacifico (FIR)
TMO: Stefano Penne (FIR)

England v New Zealand
Franklin’s Gardens, Northampton, Sunday 7 November 2021
Referee: Aurelie Groizeleau (FFR)
ARs: Aimee Barrett-Theron (SARU) and Doriane Domenjo (FFR)
TMO: Eric Gauzins (FFR)

Ireland v USA
Venue: TBC, Friday 12 November 2021
Referee: Sara Cox (RFU)
ARs: Maria Beatrice Benvenuti (FIR) and Maria Giovanna Pacifico (FIR)
TMO: Claire Hodnett (RFU)

Wales v South Africa
Cardiff Arms Park, Cardiff, Saturday 13 November 2021
Referee: Clara Munarini (FIR)
ARs: Doriane Domenjo (FFR) and Maria Latos (Ger)
TMO: Ian Tempest (RFU)

France v New Zealand
Stade du Hameau, Pau, Saturday 13 November 2021
Referee: Aimee Barrett-Theron (SARU)
ARs: TBC and Katherine Ritchie (RFU)
TMO: Ben Whitehouse (WRU)

Scotland v Japan
DAM Health Stadium, Murrayfield, Sunday 14 November 2021
Referee: Nikki O’Donnell (RFU)
ARs: Sara Cox (RFU) and Francesca Martin (WRU)
TMO: Claire Hodnett (RFU)

England v Canada
The Stoop, Twickenham, Sunday 14 November 2021
Referee: Hollie Davidson (SRU)
ARs: Aurelie Groizeleau (FFR) and Maria Giovanna Pacifico (FIR)
TMO: Neil Paterson (SRU)

Ireland v Japan
Venue: TBC, Saturday 20 November 2021
Referee: Clara Munarini (FIR)
ARs: Sara Cox (RFU) and Katherine Ritchie (RFU)
TMO: Matteo Liperini (FIR)

France v New Zealand
Stade Pierre Fabre, Castres, Saturday 20 November 2021
Referee: Hollie Davidson (SRU)
ARs: Aimee Barrett-Theron (SARU) and Nikki O’Donnell (RFU)
TMO: Neil Paterson (SRU)

Wales v Canada

Cardiff Arms Park, Cardiff, Sunday 21 November 2021
Referee: Aurelie Groizeleau (FFR)
ARs: Maria Beatrice Benvenuti (FIR) and Maria Giovanna Pacifico (FIR)
TMO: Claire Hodnett (RFU)

England v USA
Sixways, Worcester, Sunday 21 November 2021
Referee: Julianne Zussman (RC)
ARs: Doriane Domenjo (FFR) and Francesca Martin (WRU)
TMO: Ian Davies (WRU)

Barbarians Women v South Africa
Twickenham Stadium, London, Saturday 27 November 2021
Referee: Clara Munarini (FIR)
ARs: TBC and TBC
TMO: TBC

Pacific Four Series – N America leg

USA v Canada
Monday 1 November 2021
Referee: Julianne Zussman (Can)
ARs: Amelia Luciano (USA) and Michael Jones (Can)
TMO: Chris Assmus (Can)

USA v Canada
Friday 5 November 2021
Referee: Katherine Roche (USA)
ARs: Amelia Luciano (USA) and Michael Jones (Can)
TMO: Chris Assmus (Can)

with thanks to rugbyreferee.net

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Autumn Tours Schedule Update http://4theloveofsport.co.uk/2021/10/15/autumn-tours-schedule-update/ Fri, 15 Oct 2021 20:20:09 +0000 http://4theloveofsport.co.uk/?p=40706 Continue Reading →

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Here’s an update of the international matches coming up over the coming weeks. Your diary could scarcely be more crowded.

31 October England v New Zealand, Exeter
1 November USA v Canada Glendale, Colorado
5 November USA v Canada Glendale, Colorado
6 November France v South Africa, Vannes
7 November England v New Zealand, Northampton
7 November Wales v Japan, Cardiff Arms Park
12 November Ireland v USA, Dublin
13 November France v New Zealand, Pau
13 November Wales v South Africa, Cardiff Arms Park
14 November England v Canada, Twickenham Stoop
14 November Scotland v Japan, Edinburgh
20 November France v New Zealand, Castres
20 November Ireland v Japan, Dublin
21 November England v USA, Worcester
21 November Wales v Canada, Cardiff Arms Park
27 November Barbarians v South Africa, Twickenham

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Canada’s Touring Squad Autumn 2021 http://4theloveofsport.co.uk/2021/10/15/canadas-touring-squad-autumn-2021/ Fri, 15 Oct 2021 12:20:21 +0000 http://4theloveofsport.co.uk/?p=40693 Continue Reading →

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Sandro Fiorino, the Canadian Head Coach, has announced the names of 32 players to undertake their USA and European tour this autumn:

Alex Ellis (Barrhaven Scottish/Saracens)
Alexandra Tessier (Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue RFC)
Brianna Miller (Saint-Anne-de-Bellevue RFC)
Brittany Kassil (Guelph Redcoats)
Courtney Holtkamp (Red Deer Titans)
DaLeaka Menin (Exeter Chiefs)
Elissa Alarie (Westshore RFC/SABRFC/Braves de TR)
Emily Belchos de Goede (Westshore RFC)
Emily Tuttosi (Exeter Chiefs)
Emma Taylor (HRFC)
Gabrielle Senft (Castaway Wanders)
Gillian Boag (Capilano RFC)
Janna Slevinsky (Saracens/Calgary Saracens)
Julia Schell* (Guelph Redcoats)
Justine Pelletier (Stade Bordelais/Club de rugby de Quebec)
Karen Paquin (Stade Bordelais/Club de rugby de Quebec)
Laetitia Royer* (Lons Section Paloise/St-Anne-de-Bellevue)
Laura Russell (Toronto Nomads/Cowichan RFC)
Marie Thibault (Club de Rugby de Quebec)
Mikiela Nelson (UBC Rugby/Capilano Rugby)
Nakisa Levale* (Abbotsford RFC)
Ngalula Fuamba (TMRRFC)
Olivia DeMerchant (Exeter Chiefs/Halifax Tars RFC)
Paige Farries (Worcester Warriors/Westshore RFC)
Pamphinette Buisa (Ottawa Irish)
Renee Gonzalez* (Westshore RFC)
Sabrina Poulin (TMRRFC/Stade Rennais)
Sara Kaljuvee (Toronto Scottish)
Sarah-Maude Lachance* (Lons Section Paloise/Club de Rugby de Quebec)
Sophie de Goede (Castaway Wanderers RFC)
Tyson Beukeboom (Cowichan RFC)
Veronica Harrigan (Brantford Harlequins)
*uncapped

As with the USA squad, a number of players are unavailable for the trip. They include leading figures like Cindy Nelles, Mackenzie Carson, Alysha Corrigan and McKinley Hunt.

Even so it is a very experienced group, well used to touring and performing at high level. They amass 398 caps between them, with their captain Laura Russell in line for her 50th cap. They will be keen to maintain their present world ranking (3rd), closely followed by France. That will give them the confidence to enter the final straight before next year’s World Cup.

Unlike the USA squad just announced, the Canadians include several players who have been performing in Elite 1 in France. They are the Francophone group from Quebec who form most of the Canadian back-line.

Nakisa Levale and Renee Gonzalez featured in the Vancouver and Edmonton Fast Four Sevens tournament last month.

The Fixture Schedule:

November 1, 2021
v USA
(Infinity Park, Colorado)

November 5, 2021
v USA
(Infinity Park, Colorado)

November 14, 2021
v England
(Twickenham Stoop)

November 21, 2021
v Wales
(Cardiff Arms Park)

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Red Roses autumn internationals to be broadcast live on BBC Two http://4theloveofsport.co.uk/2021/10/07/red-roses-autumn-internationals-to-be-broadcast-live-on-bbc-two/ Thu, 07 Oct 2021 13:05:31 +0000 http://4theloveofsport.co.uk/?p=40532 Continue Reading →

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England Women head coach Simon Middleton has named a 40-player training squad ahead of the 2021 autumn internationals.

Sarah Bern is in line for her first international run out in a year after missing most of the 2020/21 season through injury.

The squad is made up of a mix of youth and experience, featuring 11 uncapped players.

The group assemble for the first of two preparation camps at Bisham Abbey next week (11-14 October) with the second camp taking place (18-21 October) before coming together to begin their Autumn International campaign on Tuesday 26 October.

During that period, the Red Roses take on New Zealand, firstly at Sandy Park, Exeter (Sunday 31 October, kick-off 2.30pm) before a second meeting with the Black Ferns at cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens, Northampton (Sunday 7 November, kick-off 2.45pm).

England then return to Twickenham Stoop to host third-ranked in the world Canada (Sunday 14 November, kick-off 2.30pm). Their final Test is a meeting with USA at Worcester Warriors’ Sixways home ground (Sunday 21 November, kick-off 2.45pm).

All fixtures will be broadcast live on BBC Two.

Tickets for all four fixtures are available via englandrugby.com or via the venue host club – details below.

The Rugby Football Union (RFU) can also confirm the contracted England Women XVs player list for the 2021/22 season.

There is strong representation from last season’s Allianz Premier 15s champions Harlequins, eight players from 2020/21 runners up Saracens are included, while Bristol Bears quartet Bern, Amber Reed, Leanne Riley and Abbie Ward are also among the names announced.

Alex Matthews and Helena Rowland were regulars for the Red Roses last season and represented Team GB at the Olympic Games, both have committed their immediate futures to XVs along with inside centre and fellow Olympian Holly Aitchison.

Ellie Kildunne and Abby Dow both featured in England’s back three last season and are once again contracted for the forthcoming campaign.

Middleton said: “We have selected players on their form in the Allianz Premier 15s as well as the way players fared in our summer pre-season camps.

“Connie Powell is a player we’ve had an eye on for a long time and she’s been very unlucky with injuries in the past. We’ve got nothing but good things to say about her. She adds depth to our specialist hooking position. That’s key.

“Similarly, Maud Muir was absolutely outstanding in her contribution in camp last year for us and did the same last summer. She’s one of those players who has the potential to go to the World Cup, but we’ve got to create an opportunity for her and that’s what we’ll do.

“Sadia Kabeya and Emily Robinson are both back rowers. They have got a lot of the attributes we’re looking for. They’re aggressive, dynamic all-action players who look like they play with some edge about them.

“In terms of the backs, Ella Wyrwas looks terrific for Saracens. We had her on our radar when she was at Loughborough but she had an ACL injury and that took that opportunity away from her at that time.

“We’ve also got Exeter’s Flo Robinson and Merryn Doidge in the mix who have done really well for us in last season’s camps and in the summer. Both are very much learning their trade and we’re watching their development closely.

“Emma Sing’s been knocking on the door for a while. She’s a fast, physical player. Scott (Bemand) has watched her very closely and he’s been very impressed with her performances.

“Heather Cowell is an X factor player. She’s got unbelievable pace and great try-scoring instinct.

“We’ve got a host of potential debutants in the squad who are there because they impressed in the league or they’ve been on our radar for a while and have upped their game again this season. That’s what we wanted them to do. We wanted players to put their hand up in the league and that’s why they’ve been selected accordingly.

“The impact getting our games on terrestrial TV has is huge in terms of opening up to the wider audience and growing and promoting the game. You know if it’s going to be on BBC, it’ll be produced well and a great show. The emphasis they’ve put on the women’s games that they’ve covered previously, they’ve always done a fantastic job and it’s world-class delivery. It can only be good for us and we’re thrilled that our matches are on the BBC.”

England Women squad for the 2021 autumn internationals 

Forwards
Zoe Aldcroft (Gloucester-Hartpury, 24 caps)
Sarah Beckett (Harlequins, 21 caps)
Sarah Bern (Bristol Bears, 36 caps)
Hannah Botterman (Saracens, 22 caps)
Shaunagh Brown (Harlequins, 24 caps)
Bryony Cleall (Wasps, 5 caps)
Poppy Cleall (Saracens, 47 caps)
Amy Cokayne (Harlequins, 57 caps)
Vickii Cornborough (Harlequins, 60 caps)
Lark Davies (Loughborough Lightning, 31 caps)
Vicky Fleetwood (Saracens, 79 caps)
Detysha Harper (Loughborough Lightning, 5 caps)*
Sarah Hunter (Loughborough Lightning, 126 caps)
Sadia Kabeya (Loughborough Lightning, uncapped)*
Alex Matthews (Worcester Warriors, 41 caps)
Harriet Millar-Mills (Wasps, 62 caps)*
Maud Muir (Wasps, uncapped)*
Cath O’Donnell (Loughborough Lightning, 19 caps)
Marlie Packer (Saracens, 76 caps)
Connie Powell (Gloucester-Hartpury, uncapped)*
Emily Robinson (Harlequins, uncapped)*
Abbie Ward (Bristol Bears, 47 caps)

Backs
Holly Aitchison (Saracens, uncapped)
Jess Breach (Harlequins, 19 caps)
Heather Cowell (Harlequins, uncapped)*
Merryn Doidge (Exeter Chiefs, uncapped)*
Abby Dow (Wasps, 18 caps)
Zoe Harrison (Saracens, 30 caps)
Ellie Kildunne (Harlequins, 15 caps)
Claudia MacDonald (Wasps, 15 caps)
Sarah McKenna (Saracens, 36 caps)
Lucy Packer (Harlequins, uncapped)*
Amber Reed (Bristol Bears, 58 caps)
Leanne Riley (Bristol Bears, 44 caps)
Flo Robinson (Exeter Chiefs, uncapped)*
Helena Rowland (Loughborough Lightning, 6 caps)
Emma Sing (Gloucester-Hartpury, uncapped)*
Lydia Thompson (Worcester Warriors, 47 caps)
Lagi Tuima (Harlequins, 8 caps)
Ella Wyrwas (Saracens, uncapped)*

*denotes non-contracted player

Emily Scarratt is the final contracted player but misses the autumn period due to injury (broken leg).

Autumn fixture schedule and ticket information 

ENGLAND V NEW ZEALAND
Sunday 31 October, KO 2.30pm
Sandy Park, Exeter
Tickets: tickethub.exeterchiefs.co.uk

ENGLAND V NEW ZEALAND
Sunday 7 November, KO 2.45pm
cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens, Northampton
Tickets: northamptonsaints.co.uk/buytickets

ENGLAND V CANADA
Sunday 14 November, KO 2.30pm
Twickenham Stoop, London
Tickets: https://www.eticketing.co.uk/harlequins

ENGLAND V USA
Sunday 21 November, KO 2.45pm
Sixways Stadium, Worcester
Tickets: warriors.co.uk/tickets

Courtesy of the RFU

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Dates of forthcoming International Matches http://4theloveofsport.co.uk/2021/09/06/dates-of-forthcoming-international-matches/ Mon, 06 Sep 2021 12:59:42 +0000 http://4theloveofsport.co.uk/?p=40063 Continue Reading →

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Here is a digest of forthcoming international matches. It includes RWC qualifiers this month and fixtures for autumn tours in November

RWC Qualifiers

All games to be played at Stadio Sergio Lanfranchi, Parma (Italy have the highest world ranking)

13 September Ireland v Spain; Scotland v Italy
19 September Ireland v Italy; Scotland v Spain
25 September Ireland v Scotland; Spain v Italy

Autumn Tours

31 October England v New Zealand, Exeter
1 November USA v Canada Glendale, Colorado
5 November USA v Canada Glendale, Colorado
6 November France v South Africa, Vannes
7 November England v New Zealand, Northampton
13 November France v New Zealand, Pau
14 November England v Canada, Twickenham Stoop
20 November France v New Zealand, Castres
21 November England v USA, Worcester
21 November Wales v Canada (to be confirmed)

According to the Welsh website ‘there are currently no forthcoming fixtures’. Thereby hangs a tale.

None of these dates can be considered a certainty. The pandemic may yet cause alterations or cancellations. Two tests between the Wallaroos and the Black Ferns due at the end of this month have been cancelled.

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The Autumn Internationals 2019 – a review http://4theloveofsport.co.uk/2019/12/01/the-autumn-internationals-2019-a-review/ Sun, 01 Dec 2019 14:35:42 +0000 http://4theloveofsport.co.uk/?p=33070 Continue Reading →

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The Autumn Internationals 2019 – How did Twelve Nations get on?

12 Results:

3 November Spain 29 Wales 5
9 November France 10 England 20
10 November Ireland 13 Wales 15
16 November Italy 17 Japan 17
20 November USA 0 Canada 19
16 November England 17 France 15
17 November Scotland 3 Wales 17
23 November England 60 Italy 3
24 November Scotland 20 Japan 24
24 November USA 27 Canada 52
26 November Netherlands 12 Hong Kong 14
30 November Netherlands 0 Hong Kong 18

Each Nation

Canada: demolished their neighbours, first in the wet, then in the dry. So dominant, you must wonder how the Eagles beat them back in July 46-43. They will take some beating at this rate.

England: another unbeaten autumn series, but their only decisive win was against Italy. They kept their unbeaten home run of 17 wins by a matter of seconds against France.

France: desperately disappointing to lose both games against the Red Roses; the away loss was even more harrowing than the home one. This drops them below Canada to fourth place in world rankings.

Hong Kong: Jo Hull, their head coach, will be delighted to come away from a second tour of Europe with two wins out of two. She blooded several youngsters to widen her player-strength.

Ireland: another worrying home loss, this time to Wales. They were the odd 6-Nations team out, playing only that single game and losing. The pick-up from the last World Cup is taking a long time to achieve, but it’s hard to see why. They have so many fine players and a great tradition.

Italy: two steps back for the Azzurre as they failed to hold out against the visiting Japanese, then slumped to their heaviest defeat ever against England. Here are the previous encounters:
9 March 2019: England 55-0 Italy
4 February 2018: Italy 7-42 England
13 August 2017: England 56-13 Italy
25 February 2017: England 29-15
13 February 2016: Italy 24-33 England
15 February 2015 England 39-7 Italy
16 March 2014: Italy 0-24 England170 caps
9 March 2013: England 34-0 Italy
Di Giandomenico made some surprising changes for the England game, probably forced on him by injury and the lack of obvious replacements. He had the experienced left-winger Sofia Stefan paired with the 20-year-old Micol Cavina (4 caps) in a half-back partnership that couldn’t get its back line running freely and often.

Japan: the Sakuras’ ground-breaking tour of Europe proved a great success. They came back to draw with Italy, then showed Scotland how far they still have to travel. Their speed of continuity marked them out; rapid repossessions and passes won them seven tries. They brought 30 players with a total of only 170 caps, less than 6 per player. This inexperience counted for little. Great credit to the squad and Lesley Mackenzie, their Canadian head coach since January.

Netherlands: Former test prop Sylke Haverkorn has now been tasked with rebuilding the country’s women’s 15s team as the newly-appointed head coach. She’s introducing a women’s U18s team and putting plans in place for more national age-grade teams. More important, she arranged a two-test visit by Hong Kong, a 2017 WRWC side. The Dutch lost the first by two points in a tense comeback, but fell away disappointingly four days later, failing to register a point..

Scotland: Philip Doyle is ringing the changes, but some features are unwilling to budge. Once again his new-look team failed to last the course against Japan at Scotstoun, going down 20-24. They were 20-10 up with ten minutes to go (four tries including two by Megan Gaffney), but they leaked two crucial tries. In the final analysis it was the lack of conversion kicks that did for them. Somehow Doyle must get his side playing right up to the ref’s final blast.

USA: the Eagles have few chances to prove themselves, and as often as not it’s against their northern neighbours. Unfortunately for them the Maple Leafs are looking a thoroughly mean outfit. The two Chula Vista games were played in contrasting weather conditions, the first wet in the extreme. But in both contests the Eagles found Canadian forward-power and slick back-play too much for them. Rob Cain hasn’t yet found lift-off for his charges.

Wales: they will be by far the happiest of the three Celtic nations. Theirs was the broadest programme, blending three tests with two outings against distinguished invitational sides from all over the world. After a worrying start in Madrid the two away wins will probably please them most. Chris Horsman, the forwards coach, said: ‘Our ambition for this campaign is to develop strength in depth, improve fitness and grow together as a team. We believe that will help us to close the gap between us and the best teams in the world.’
Their happiest memories will certainly be their final game against a ten-nation Barbarians side on a first visit to the Principality Stadium. Over 12,000 spectators arrived early to watch the women before the men took the stage. Final score: 15-29
Several new faces in the Welsh line-up. Point of interest: three of Crawshay’s 8 points came from a drop goal by Ellie Green (Quins), the first drop-goal I have registered this season.

World Rankings (the top 15 as of 26 November 2019)
New Zealand 93.88
England 93.00
Canada 87.49
France 86.47
Australia 78.68
USA 78.19
Italy 78.17
Wales 75.99
Spain 75.54
Ireland 71.30
Scotland 67.27
Japan 65.80
Netherlands 64.54
Portugal 64.00
South Africa 63.39

England have climbed as close to the leaders as they’ve been since they last sat (briefly) on top two years ago.

Canada’s two wins over the USA see them rise above France – again.

Australia’s position seems curious for a nation that plays so little 15s.

Italy sit above three of their Six Nations opponents, but they aren’t making headway against England and France.

Spain’s position reinforces their call to be reinstated in the 6N.

Japan have made a huge leap after their unbeaten tour of Europe. They have successful ways of making up for their lack of size. By beating Scotland they have achieved a men-women double.

The Netherlands are making a strong bid to improve their 15s game under a new head coach, Sylke Haverkorn, who, a former test player herself, has the unusual distinction of coaching both a male and a female club to national championship wins.

This vast number of autumn test matches is one of the best indicators for the future of women’s rugby.

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England Women secure comprehensive win over Italy in Bedford http://4theloveofsport.co.uk/2019/11/23/england-women-secure-comprehensive-win-over-italy-in-bedford/ Sat, 23 Nov 2019 23:39:34 +0000 http://4theloveofsport.co.uk/?p=33006 Continue Reading →

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The Red Roses ended their November Quilter Internationals unbeaten after sealing a comprehensive 60-3 10-try win over Italy.

England led 22-3 at the break with tries from Vicky Fleetwood, Poppy Cleall, Heather Kerr and Abby Dow, while Italy’s points came via a Michela Sillari penalty.

Second-half tries from Kerr, Emily Scarratt, Sarah Bern (2), Rownita Marston and a penalty try added further gloss to the win.

Middleton’s side made it a 17th straight victory on home soil in front of vociferous support at a sold-out Goldington Road in Bedford, following on from the impressive following at Sandy Park last weekend.

The Red Roses were led out by Natasha Hunt, who celebrated her 50th cap, and having defeated France both home and away in November, they ended their Quilter Internationals with a third victory.

Victory also meant the Red Roses ended 2019 by winning 11 of their 13 games but having established such dominance at home it will be on the road where they begin their Six Nations defence though, taking on familiar foe France on Sunday 2 February in Pau. Fixtures against Scotland, Ireland, Wales and Italy will then follow.

A feature of England’s performances over the past two years under the guidance of forwards coach Richard Blaze has been the dominance of their pack and it was in full evidence during an impressive first half in Bedford.

Italy’s resistance lasted less than six minutes, Fleetwood bundling over off the back of a driving maul – which would set the tone for the match.

Sillari had Italy’s first points from the tee but England’s power up front continued to do the damage and Cleall powered through to cross under the posts, which Scarratt converted.

Another driving maul from a lineout resulted in Kerr bundling over for a third England try and Dow had a fourth when diving over in the corner as Middleton’s side showed great patience going through multiple phases before shifting the ball wide to the Wasps FC Ladies wing.

World player of the year Scarratt cut a fine line through the Italy midfield to cross under the posts for a fifth England try after the break and she converted her own score.

Italy lost Lucia Cammarano to the bin as their task was made that much harder and England made them pay, Kerr bundling over off the back of another lineout driving maul.

Italy were powerless to stop England’s driving maul, and Bern powered over for England’s seventh.
England were awarded a penalty try after scrum infringement from Italy as Middleton’s side crossed 50 points.

And moments later the power from the pack was in full evidence again as an England scrum on Italy’s 5m was shunted to their own tryline and Marston dotted down.

Italy lost Sara Tounesi to the bin in the final moments and Bern had a second try after collecting the ball off the top of a lineout and flying down the blindside to cross for a 10th England score.
Vicky Fleetwood was among the try scorers and having been named player of the match, she paid tribute to her fellow forwards.

“We stuck to our principles, played it through the forwards when we needed to and shifted it out to the backs when it was open for them. It as scrappy at times but great to come away with the win,” she said.

“Having Sarah Bern and Ellena Perry come on off the bench was massive for us, we’ve built throughout the autumn and have learned from every game and hopefully we can continue to build through the Six Nations.”

England – Tries: Fleetwood, Cleall, Kerr 2, Dow, Scarratt, Bern 2, penalty Cons: Scarratt 2, Harrison
Italy – Pens: Sillari

England
15 Sarah McKenna, 14 Abby Dow, 13 Emily Scarratt, 12 Emily Scott, 11 Claudia MacDonald, 10 Zoe Harrison, 9 Natasha Hunt; 1 Hannah Botterman, 2 Heather Kerr, 3 Shaunagh Brown, 4 Poppy Cleall, 5 Zoe Aldcroft, 6 Marlie Packer, 7 Vicky Fleetwood, 8 Sarah Hunter (C).

Finishers
16 Amy Cokayne, 17 Ellena Perry, 18 Sarah Bern, 19 Sarah Beckett, 20 Rownita Marston, 21 Leanne Riley, 22 Katy Daley-Mclean, 23 Jess Breach.

Italy
15 Sara Barattin, 14 Maria Magatti, 13 Michela Sillari, 12 Beatrice Rigoni, 11 Camilla Sarasso, 10 Micol Cavina, 9 Sofia Stefan; 1 Silvia Turani, 2 Melissa Bettoni, 3 Lucia Gai, 4 Valeria Fedrighi, 5 Giordana Duca, 6 Isabella Locatelli, 7 Giada Franco, 8 Elisa Giordano.

Replacements
16 Giulia Cerato, 17 Michela Merlo, 18 Sara Tounesi, 19 Valentina Ruzza, 20 Lucia Cammarano, 21 Francesca Sgorbini, 22 Laura Paganini, 23 Beatrice Capomaggi.

Courtesy of the RFU

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