England Launch World Cup Campaign With Dominant 11-Try Victory Over USA
Red Roses Make Statement With Record-Breaking Performance
England delivered a resounding opening statement in their Rugby World Cup campaign with a commanding 69-7 victory over the United States in Sunderland. In front of a record crowd of 42,723 fans—the largest ever for a Women’s Rugby World Cup match—the Red Roses showcased their attacking prowess, running in 11 tries to assert their status as tournament favorites.
Full-back Ellie Kildunne starred with two tries, celebrating each with her signature square-dance routine—a nod to the team’s lighthearted WhatsApp group tradition. Meanwhile, winger Jess Breach, Kildunne’s co-host on the Rugby Rodeo podcast, also grabbed a brace as England demonstrated their depth and firepower.
The United States, ranked 10th in the world, started brightly but were ultimately overpowered by England’s speed, structure, and superior set-piece execution. Despite a spirited try from lock Erica Jarrell-Searcy in the first half, the Eagles faded under relentless pressure from the hosts, who extended their lead with ruthless efficiency.
England’s Maul and Attack Prove Too Strong for USA
The Red Roses wasted little time stamping their authority on the game. Despite a shaky start that saw them fumble the opening kick-off, England quickly settled, dominating both possession and territory. Their forwards set the tone early, overpowering the Eagles at scrum time and unleashing their devastating driving maul—a tactic that led to flanker Sadia Kabeya’s opening try.
Scrum-half Natasha Hunt and fly-half Zoe Harrison orchestrated the attack with precision, while Megan Jones’ perfectly weighted cross-kick set up Abby Dow for England’s second try. Prop Hannah Botterman then bulldozed through two defenders to extend the lead before the United States hit back through Jarrell-Searcy’s opportunistic score.
However, the momentum shifted decisively when U.S. centre Alev Kelter was sin-binned for slapping the ball from Hunt’s hands. With the extra player, England exploited the space, adding two quick tries through Maud Muir and Kildunne to take a commanding 28-7 lead into halftime.
One-Way Traffic as England Accelerate Away
The second half saw England’s dominance only grow. Just two minutes after the break, the slick midfield combination of Tatyana Heard and Jones sliced through the American defence, releasing Dow for her second try. Despite fleeting resistance from the Eagles, England’s superior conditioning and bench strength proved decisive.
Hookers Amy Cokayne and Lark Atkin-Davies (twice) both crashed over from close range, while Breach intercepted a loose pass for a sensational long-range finish. Kildunne’s second try, coupled with Harrison’s flawless goalkicking (six conversions), ensured the scoreline reflected England’s superiority.
What’s Next for Both Teams?
England will look to maintain their momentum when they face Samoa in Northampton next weekend. With their attacking fluency and defensive solidity, the Red Roses appear well-placed to progress deep into the tournament.
For the United States, the path to the knockout stages becomes tougher. They must now regroup ahead of a crucial clash against Australia in York on August 30. A win there is vital if they hope to advance from Pool A.
The record-breaking attendance in Sunderland also underlined the growing popularity of women’s rugby. With electrifying performances like this, England’s Rugby World Cup journey is capturing the imagination of fans worldwide—and proving why they remain the team to beat.
Match Highlights & Key Stats
– England 69 (28) – Tries: Kabeya, Botterman, Muir, Kildunne (2), Dow, Cokayne, Breach (2), Atkin-Davies (2) | Cons: Harrison (6), Sing
– USA 7 (7) – Try: Jarrell-Searcy | Con: Hawkins
– Attendance: 42,723 (new Women’s Rugby World Cup record)
With this emphatic opening win, England have set the standard for their Rugby World Cup campaign. If they continue this form, few will bet against them lifting the trophy.
