Canada ends England’s unbeaten streak, narrowing the gap with world champions
After 41 matches, nearly four years and a Rugby World Cup triumph, the Red Roses’ unbeaten run has finally been broken. The loss came at the hands of a determined Canadian side in Toronto, handing England their first defeat since 2022.
Sale hooker Amy Cokayne, who holds 95 caps, faced the media after the match. “You can’t dwell on it,” she said. “We weren’t a million miles away, so it’s not like we have to completely throw the book out - nothing needs to massively change to the way we play.”
Historically, England have dominated Canada. In the ten years before this autumn, the two teams met seven times, with England winning each encounter by an average margin of almost 22 points. That dominance has faded. After a 26‑26 draw at Exeter’s Sandy Park in September, Canada clinched a 24‑21 victory in Toronto on Friday, ending England’s long unbeaten run.
How did Canada close the gap with the world champions, and how will England respond to their first loss under head coach John Mitchell?
When the two nations met in last year’s World Cup final, England comfortably won at Twickenham. Canada were left disappointed with their performance, a sentiment that was understandable. Their semi‑final demolition of New Zealand, marked by rapid ruck speed and precise handling, was arguably the tournament’s best display.
Canada have not been as consistent as England, suffering defeats to New Zealand and France this year. Yet at their peak they can reach a level higher than any of England’s usual rivals. In front of a record‑breaking home crowd of 18,621 in Toronto, the match was billed as a chance for World Cup revenge, and Canada rose to the occasion.
Beyond the emotion, structural factors have helped Canada improve. Head coach Kevin Rouet and many of his players have gained experience in England’s Premier 15s, the world’s strongest professional women’s league. While Canada still lack a domestic professional league, the exposure to the Premier 15s gives their players training and match experience unavailable at home.
New talent has also bolstered the Canadian side since the last World Cup. Number eight Lizzie Gibson, who earned her Test debut in April, provides a hard‑carrying option at the base of the scrum. England, meanwhile, have been forced to blood fresh faces. Regular captain Zoe Stratford, second‑rowers Abbie Ward and Rosie Galligan, back‑row Marlie Packer and wing Abby Dow are all absent, leaving England with less depth and experience than a year ago.
The psychological aspect is harder to gauge. For years the Red Roses have sat at the summit of women’s rugby, often setting internal statistical targets because victory seemed inevitable. After winning a home World Cup, finding fresh motivation has become a challenge. The squad rallied to defend their Six Nations title immediately after the tournament, but the recent loss may reflect a lack of clear goals.
The upcoming rematch in Ottawa on Friday, part of the Global WXV Series, could provide the spark England need. Canada versus England will be broadcast on BBC iPlayer and the BBC Sport app.