The England women’s rugby league side stepped up their preparations for the upcoming Rugby League World Cup with a commanding display against France in a mid‑season international match held on Saturday in Toulouse. This encounter, staged at the Stade Ernest‑Wallon – the home ground of Toulouse Olympique – marked England's first international fixture of the calendar year and served as a crucial benchmark ahead of the global tournament. From the opening whistle, the English squad demonstrated why they are regarded as one of the sport's elite teams. France opened the scoring with two successful penalty kicks, putting the visitors under early pressure.
However, the momentum quickly shifted when debutante Ellise Derbyshire broke through the French defensive line to register England's first try of the match, leveling the scores and signalling the start of a dominant English performance. Lucy Murray added two more tries, showcasing her speed and agility on the wing. Meanwhile, Ella Donnelly, who was making her inaugural appearance in an England shirt, crossed the try line for the first time in her senior international career, further extending the lead.
The combination of fresh talent and experienced campaigners created a fluid, attacking style that left the French side scrambling. One of the standout moments came from Eva Hunter, the reigning Woman of Steel, who executed a spectacular solo run.
Evading multiple French defenders with a blend of power and footwork, she grounded the ball for a try that pushed the halftime score to a commanding 28‑4 in England's favour. Her performance epitomised the skill and determination that the team hopes to bring to the World Cup.
The second half saw England maintain their intensity. Play‑maker Jenna Foubister, known for her vision and incisive passing, added another try, further widening the gap. Derbyshire, already on the scoresheet, completed a brace by scoring her second try of the evening, underscoring her impact as a newcomer to the squad. Goal‑kicker Izzy Rowe was flawless from the tee, converting five of the seven attempts at goal, a reliable contribution that cemented the final tally.
The match concluded with a decisive 38‑4 victory for England, a result that not only boosted confidence but also offered valuable insights into the team's tactical options and depth ahead of the World Cup. The try‑scorers for England were: Ellise Derbyshire (2), Lucy Murray (2), Ella Donnelly, Eva Hunter, and Jenna Foubister. Their collective effort highlighted a blend of emerging talent and seasoned expertise, suggesting a balanced squad capable of adapting to the varied challenges of international competition.
Beyond the scoreboard, the fixture provided the coaching staff, led by Stuart Barrow, with critical data on player combinations, defensive structures, and set‑piece execution. The ability to integrate debutants like Derbyshire and Donnelly smoothly into the side bodes well for squad rotation during the tournament, where managing player fatigue will be essential. The win also serves as a statement to other nations preparing for the World Cup. England's fluid attacking patterns, disciplined defensive line, and high conversion rate illustrate a team that has refined its game plan through rigorous preparation and strategic player development.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching how the momentum from this victory translates into the World Cup campaign. The English women's team now enters the tournament with heightened morale, a clear tactical identity, and a roster that blends youth and experience. Their performance in Toulouse will be remembered as a pivotal stepping stone on the road to potential World Cup glory.
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