‘Come get us’ – England ready for Six Nations decider
‘Come get us’ – England Ready for Six Nations Decider
Come get us – England’s Women’s rugby team is stepping onto the pitch at Stade Atlantique in Bordeaux with a renewed sense of determination, despite being on the verge of a significant challenge. After a four-game winning streak, which has averaged nine tries per match and a 41-point margin in victories, the Red Roses now face a test against France that promises to be more demanding physically and tactically. This encounter, set for Sunday, 17 May at 16:45 BST, will determine whether England can maintain their dominance in the Women’s Six Nations tournament.
England’s Patched-Up Squad
The return of Sadia Kabeya to the open-side flanker position marks a critical adjustment for England, who are navigating a transitional phase in their team dynamics. While Kabeya’s comeback is a welcome boost, the squad remains a collection of players who have been reshaped by injuries, pregnancies, and strategic call-ups. Delaney Burns, for instance, has made a remarkable resurgence, stepping into the second-row role after a prolonged absence due to the pregnancies of Zoe Stratford, Abbie Ward, and Rosie Galligan, as well as the injury to Morwenna Talling. Her inclusion in the starting line-up signals a shift in England’s approach, though the team is still adapting to the challenges of this evolving roster.
Helena Rowland, England’s playmaker in the inside centre, continues to be a vital asset, yet her individual brilliance is tempered by the absence of Tatyana Heard, who was instrumental in providing a direct route to the try line. Prop Liz Crake, who was on a central contract but fell off the radar in 2025, is set to make a brief appearance on the bench, replacing Kelsey Clifford, who is sidelined with a leg complaint. Crake’s presence offers a spark of pace, but her role remains uncertain. Demelza Short, a Bristol Bears rookie, is also in the mix, having shone in her first Test appearances. Her rapid inclusion suggests the coaching staff is prioritizing speed and energy over experience.
The Defensive Concerns
England’s recent success has been accompanied by defensive vulnerabilities that may be exploited by their opponents. The team’s 37-match winning streak, stretching back to November 2022 and extending beyond the World Cup final loss to New Zealand, has seen them concede points more easily than expected. Their defensive line has struggled to contain sniping runs around the breakdown and driven mauls, particularly in the final quarter of matches where they have historically faltered. This weakness is now a focal point for France, who have capitalized on it in recent games.
France, on the other hand, has shown a consistent ability to defend effectively. They currently hold the top record in the Women’s Six Nations for points conceded, as well as for tackle accuracy and dominance. The French team’s new-look back three, featuring full-back Pauline Barrat and wings Anais Grando and Lea Murie, has only 18 caps combined but brings a blend of pace and flair. This young trio, alongside seasoned players like Manane Feleu and Madoussou Fall, is expected to create disruption in the breakdown and apply pressure on England’s defense.
France’s Tactical Edge
France’s strategy for this match is clear: to exploit England’s defensive weaknesses. Teani Feleu, who previously played as number eight in the World Cup quarter-finals, has transitioned into the midfield, where she can utilize her speed to challenge Rowland’s playmaking. Carla Arbez, the sharp fly-half, has already demonstrated her ability to orchestrate scoring opportunities, as seen in her chip-and-chase try against Scotland. Her precision in attack is complemented by Meg Jones’s record as the player who has beaten the most defenders in the tournament, making her a key threat to England’s defensive structure.
Coach John Mitchell has emphasized that England’s recent scorelines are a reflection of their evolving style, one that prioritizes aggressive scoring over caution. “We’ll just keep scoring more,” he stated on Thursday, framing the team’s identity as a bold, attacking unit. However, he acknowledged that defense is “one of the easiest things to fix,” signaling a commitment to improving this aspect. The team has been training in conditions that simulate the noise of a packed stadium, a nod to the 42,000-seater Stade Atlantique, which is anticipated to break attendance records for a Women’s Six Nations match in France.
Historical Context and Nerves
Pauline Bourdon Sansus, with 75 caps to her name, is the most experienced member of France’s squad and has witnessed the team’s past clashes with England. Her memories of an 18-17 victory in Grenoble eight years ago, where she was the sole survivor, provide a psychological edge. However, France has since endured 17 consecutive defeats, raising questions about their current form. Bourdon Sansus addressed these doubts this week, noting, “We know they have collective experience. We have a little less,” but added that the team is confident in their ability to overcome this.
The match is not just a test of physicality but also of mental resilience. England’s recent performances have highlighted their ability to score, yet their defense has been inconsistent. France’s aggressive style, combined with their tactical awareness, makes them a formidable opponent. With both teams vying for the championship, the stakes are high, and the outcome could reshape the tournament’s narrative. The pressure on England to maintain their form is palpable, especially after Italy and Wales managed to secure try-scoring bonuses in their recent matches, indicating that even teams previously outmatched can find ways to trouble the Red Roses.
As the game approaches, the focus shifts to how England can adapt to France’s intensity. The coaching staff has acknowledged the need for resilience, particularly in the final quarter, where France has shown a tendency to capitalize. With the crowd expected to be loud and expectant, the pressure is on both sides to deliver. For England, this match represents a pivotal moment in their quest for a Grand Slam, while France sees it as an opportunity to reclaim their former glory. The stage is set for a high-octane encounter that will test the limits of both teams’ strategies and resolve.
“We’re not going into this game expecting to lose,” said Bourdon Sansus, underscoring France’s belief in their potential. This mindset, paired with their tactical adjustments, could prove decisive in a contest where every detail matters. The battle for supremacy in the Women’s Six Nations has never been more intense, and the clash between these two powerhouse teams promises to be a defining moment in the tournament.
In the end, the match will be a reflection of how both teams manage their strengths and weaknesses. England’s ability to score has been their hallmark, but France’s disciplined defense and opportunistic play could tip the balance. As the final whistle approaches, the Red Roses will need to refine their game, particularly in the breakdown, to secure a victory that would cement their place at the top of the Six Nations standings. The stage is set for a thrilling showdown that could determine the fate of the championship.