Rugby Union Match Report | England 35 - 17 France

Kildunne double fires England past France into the World Cup final

Ellie Kildunne marked her return with two tries as England overcame a spirited France side to secure their place in a seventh successive Women’s Rugby World Cup final.

Author | Sophie T

Stadium | Ashton Gate

Kildunne, absent from the quarter-final victory over Scotland after suffering concussion, struck either side of half-time with the kind of incisive running that has become her trademark.

France, resilient and unbowed, pushed the hosts throughout. They trailed only 7-5 at the interval and might easily have been ahead given England’s handling errors and lapses in discipline that handed them possession and territory.

After the break the Red Roses found greater control. A trademark maul powered hooker Amy Cokayne over the line, before Abbie Ward stretched the lead with a close-range finish. Kildunne, who had already crossed in the fourth minute, capitalised on Marine Ménager’s loose touch to weave through the defence and put daylight between the sides at 28-12.

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Nassira Konde claimed her second try to keep France within reach, but Meg Jones had the final word, collecting Holly Aitchison’s kick to seal victory.

The roar that greeted Kildunne’s player-of-the-match award from a 25,478-strong crowd underlined her impact. England will now face Canada, who dethroned New Zealand on Friday, in front of 82,000 fans at Twickenham’s Allianz Stadium next Saturday.

Best reaction

Lesley offered some tactical analysis. She told us: “France offered a glimpse of how to unsettle England, showing that disruption mixed with organisation can rattle the Red Roses. Canada will have noted the lesson and bring their own strengths to next week’s final. Their fitness levels stand out and could prove a serious problem for England in the biggest match of all.”

Will had a similar viewpoint, saying: “England gave France far too much freedom and the margin of victory flattered them. If Canada are allowed the same time and space on the ball in next week’s final, the outcome could be very different.”

Katherine added: “Ultimately, it came down to the finishing. England finished well and France just didn't. England will be relieved that they escaped their trickiest match so far with a win and progression to the final.”