MacDonald helps England into the final

By Mark Stevens
5/11/22

Exeter Chiefs Women’s star Claudia MacDonald helped England secure their place in next Saturday’s Rugby World Cup final with a 26-19 victory over Canada at Eden Park in Auckland.

The Red Roses -who extended their winning record to 30 in a row - will face holders and hosts New Zealand, who themselves overcame France 25-24 in a thrilling second semi-final.

Simon Middleton’s side were presented their sternest challenge yet by a Canadian side, which included three Chiefs in DeLeaka Menin, Emily Tuttosi and Gabby Senft, as well as former Exeter duo Olivia De Merchant and McKinley Hunt.

Flanker Marlie Packer grabbed England’s opening try, whilst Abby Dow helped herself to a brace, to go alongside a conversion and three penalties from Emily Scarrett.

In reply, Canada - who only trailed 15-12 at the break - countered with tries from Karen Paquin, Alysha Corrigan and Tyson Beukeboom, two of which were converted by Sophie De Goede.

Post-game, Middleton said: "We came here to get into the final, and we had to do it by hook or by crook today. We have a bit of work to do this week in terms of putting our game back together because we didn't play well today.

"Canada were absolutely brilliant today, they just don't make mistakes with the ball and put you under a lot of pressure. We had a great start and set the blueprint of keeping the ball, but then we missed a few opportunities, and invited them into the game. They are a good side with spirit and character, and tough players who keep going.

The moment of the match came on 50 minutes, when, camped on their five metre line with Canadian phases into double digits, England showed monumental defensive spirit to force a turnover before MacDonald Abby Dow combined for a length of the field score.

"That's why we brought her (Dow) she's such a valuable player, Claudia was brilliant too and I thought it was great how they combined, you won't see a better try than that. Individual brilliance," said Middleton. "I'm proud of our players because they fought hard. We got into the final, and that's all that matters."