Women's Rugby World Cup Final preview - England vs New Zealand

The Womens Rugby World Cup final kicks off this evening at the Twickenham Stoop as hosts England look to upset favourites New Zealand in what promises to be another fascinating match in a tournament that has put womens rugby well and truly on the map.

With viewership around the world doubling since the last tournament, fans of the sport have taken note of whats been happening as the rugby on show has been nothing short of highly impressive.

Tonight the best two teams go up against eachother in front of thousands, and millions around the world. Womens rugby, which constantly fights a battle for respect in a male dominated sport, has come along way in that regard in the past few weeks.

While New Zealand have been the front runners in the game for the last three world cups, beating England in the last two finals, some believe that this England side have what it takes to topple the powerful Black Ferns.

The coach of the Wallaroos, who lost to England in a great game of rugby on Wednesday night, said that he fancies the home sides chances. "Well, New Zealand have the better players, but England might just have the better team," he said.

A lot of that will come down to attitude and determination, as this New Zealand team have blown all away in this tournament, including beating France 45-7 in their semi final.

England beat them the last time they played though, at Twickenham, so confidence will be high. Look out for fantastic runner Danielle Waterman at the back, and then on the flank Maggie Alphonsi, who has smashed everything in site and almost single handily managed to transform the image of the female form of the game.

The Black Ferns have fleet footed winger Carla Hohepa on the wing, and in captain Melissa Ruscoe they have a quality leader who will be seen contributing all over the park.

A quick shout out must also go to those in Christchurch who were devastated by the earthquake that hit a few nights back. Heres wishing them all the best and hoping that for their sake, the ladies bring home something to put a smile on their faces.

You can watch the game live on rwcwomens.com , with kickoff at 17:00 local time.


Time: 06:37

Posted at 1:26 pm | 23 comments

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