England secured their place in the Rugby World Cup quarter-finals with a 47-7 victory over Australia, setting up a clash with Scotland. The result extended their unbeaten run to 30 consecutive wins, equalling their own world record, though the scoreline flattered them after a tense and bruising contest.
Australia began the match with energy and confidence, executing a sharp kicking game that forced England into errors. Their pressure paid off when Adiana Talakai powered over from a rolling maul. England did not take the lead until the 33rd minute, when Jess Breach, on her 50th cap, crossed to settle nerves. Before the break, Abbie Ward and Sadia Kabeya added tries, but Australia continued to threaten and trailed just 19-7 at half-time.
The second half saw England gradually pull away, driven by moments of individual brilliance. Scrum-half Natasha Hunt sliced through the defence to set up Kabeya’s second try, while replacement prop Kelsey Clifford made a major impact, scoring twice after coming off the bench. Sarah Bern also touched down to widen the margin before being shown a yellow card for head contact.
Despite the comfortable final score, the game exposed vulnerabilities in England’s attack and discipline. Errors in handling and decision-making disrupted their usual fluency, and Australia’s relentless first-half performance highlighted weaknesses that future opponents may look to exploit.
England also suffered injury setbacks. Full-back Ellie Kildunne left the field showing concussion symptoms and has been ruled out of the quarter-final. Prop Hannah Botterman departed with a back spasm, while Morwenna Talling underwent a head injury assessment but was cleared to continue. For Australia, Lydia Kavoa was stretchered off in the first half, adding to the physical toll of the contest.
While the Wallaroos fell away in the second half, their early display underlined their progress. They qualify for the knockout stages and will meet Canada in the quarter-finals. Their head coach noted that England’s intensity after the break proved decisive, but insisted that her side had matched them for much of the encounter.
For England, the result keeps alive their pursuit of a fifth World Cup crown, but the performance served as a reminder that even the most dominant teams can be tested. With Scotland waiting in the next round, the Red Roses will need to balance their power game with greater precision.
