England vs Spain: Red Roses jostle for position before Rugby World Cup
Zoe Harrison, in competition with Holly Aitchison, has a chance to consolidate her place at 10 years old. Lucy Packer, the nine beginnings of England in their final defeat of the World Cup against New Zealand three years ago, tries to overthrow Natasha Hunt.
In the leading line, there is an in-depth Springbok style force, with Hooker May Campbell, a joint scorer in the PWR last season, Hannah Botterman and Maud Muir as a replacement for Kelsey Clifford, Lark Atkin-Davies and Sarah Bern.
There is intrigue on the wing while Jess Breach tries to get ahead of Claudia Moloney-McDonald and Helena Rowland, a sublimely qualified footballer in search of a secure backpline and try it widely.
The Jade Shekells center will try to burst into the midfielder’s equation as it wins its third cap. Emma Sing was excellent for Gloucester-Hartpury, but has the most difficult task of all, keeping the world player of the year, the rear place of Ellie Kildune is warm.
And in the background, for everyone, is the clock.
The Canapes and Tickertape were barely removed from football celebrations, but a stick was passed. England will play France next weekend during their final warm-up, then the rehearsals are over.
An opening match of the Rugby World Cup against the United States is waiting on August 22.
Marlie Packer, who captain of the team against Spain, casts her eyes.
She has already won the World Cup.
In 2014, women’s women from England, preparing for a qualification against Wales, left the training field and sat down to encourage Packer and his teammates – all lovers – a final victory against Canada.
This time, although a victory for red roses, over the lawn at home, as professionals, in an Allianz stadium on closed counters, would be many larger quantities.
“It’s our turn now, let’s go,” said Packer.
“Like the way footballers have inspired us, we want to inspire them as well as the nation.
“We can define how women’s rugby is examined by the way we play and how we want to be.”
Spain is the place where England discovers the small details necessary to make this great ambition.
