The Rugby World Cup excitement kicked off with a record attendance as England faced the USA in their opening match. The host nation, the Red Roses, not only met the expectations surrounding them but delivered a truly dominant performance that highlighted their aspirations for the championship title.
Standout players included prop Hannah Botterman and center Megan Jones, both of whom played pivotal roles in the match. However, what makes England’s performance particularly promising for future opponents is that it wasn’t even their best showing.
While the Red Roses exhibited strength in the scrum, handling errors plagued certain phases of their game. Nonetheless, when they managed to sync their attacking efforts, they proved insurmountable, with Botterman’s impressive line run securing what was arguably the match’s best try in the first half.
Leading up to the game, Sunderland buzzed with anticipation. Fans from both teams added to the atmosphere, with USA supporters donning hot dog costumes while the Red Roses fans sported scarves and cowboy hats—a nod to the try celebration led by Ellie Kildunne and Jones. The crowd of 42,723 could barely contain their excitement when Kildunne crossed the line for her first try of the tournament in the 35th minute.
A lively opening ceremony featuring pop star Anne-Marie set a festive tone, but it was USA’s Ilona Maher who received the loudest cheers during the team announcements. England’s Kildunne was also met with an enthusiastic response, showing that the crowd was well aware of the key players on both sides.
The match commenced cautiously, with both teams initially struggling to find their rhythm. England’s breakthrough came after earning a scrum penalty, utilizing a well-executed catch-and-drive that allowed openside flanker Sadia Kabeya to score the first try of the World Cup.
Subsequent scores showcased some exquisite rugby. Jones’s cross-field kick was crucial, enabling Abby Dow to maintain possession and setting up Botterman’s incisive run through the defense. The roar from Botterman upon scoring reflected the significance of that moment. Despite being dominated, the USA showed tenacity, celebrating even small victories such as winning a breakdown penalty.
In a pre-match press briefing, Maher noted that the USA could be “their own worst enemies,” a statement that proved accurate as fumbles and miscommunication disrupted their flow. However, USA fly-half Erica Jarrell managed to put points on the board, with McKenzie Hawkins converting just in time. Unfortunately, Alev Kelter’s subsequent sin-bin for infringement hampered their progress.
Capitalizing on their numerical advantage, England continued to assert themselves, with Maud Muir slicing through for a try amidst USA’s resilient defenses. The crowd roared as Dow made a critical break through the right, later assisting Kildunne—a play that exemplified England’s burgeoning momentum as they maintained defensive intensity, halting USA’s attempts to retaliate before halftime.
The second half began with Dow on the mark again, setting up another score featuring a magnificent effort from Kildunne. The USA struggled to respond, and Botterman’s outstanding defense led to further scoring opportunities for England. The atmosphere was electrifying, especially when Jess Breach scored, eliciting a fitting celebratory soundtrack in “I Just Can’t Get Enough” by Depeche Mode.
England’s relentless performance continued, with replacement hooker Lark Atkin-Davies adding to the tally. Notably, Emily Scarratt marked her fifth Rugby World Cup appearance, becoming the first England player to achieve this milestone. Although she missed a conversion kick, the try count reflected England’s dominance as they rounded off a 69-7 victory, marking their 28th consecutive win.
With their sights firmly set on the trophy they last won in 2014, the Red Roses continue their campaign against Samoa next. Meanwhile, the USA faces a critical match against Australia that will be essential for their survival in the tournament.
