England’s women’s rugby team drew 26-26 against Canada in a thrilling match, ending their 40-game winning streak. The team, known as the Red Roses, had not failed to win an international fixture since 2022. Although England remains undefeated in 40 Tests, this draw stopped one of the longest winning sequences in world sport.
Canada started the match with great intensity in front of 14,573 fans, scoring early tries through Lizzie Gibson and DaLeaka Menin. England responded with two tries from wing Claudia Moloney-MacDonald and a score from Hannah Botterman. Both teams traded powerful attacks, leaving the score tied at 19-19 by half-time.
In the second half, hooker Bryony Field scored a try for England on her first international start. However, Canada reacted quickly when Sophie de Goede ran 20 meters before passing to Olivia Apps for another try. In the final minutes, England pushed hard to score a winning try, but Canada’s defense held them over the line to protect the draw.
The result also ended England’s perfect home record against Canada. England head coach John Mitchell said his team applied strong pressure but failed to convert their chances. However, he remained confident that the team would learn from the experience as they prepare for two upcoming Test matches against Canada this autumn.