England Women laid to rest some of their 2010 World Cup anguish by avenging world champions New Zealand in a deserved 10-0 victory at Twickenham on Saturday.
Gary Street’s side had not faced the Black Ferns since their heartbreaking final defeat 14 months ago, but a 30th minute try from Margaret Alphonsi put England firmly on their way to redressing the balance of power.
Women of the Match Emily Scarratt’s superb work set-up Alphonsi, as skipper Katy McLean successfully converted and secured the win in the second half with a 58th minute drop goal
England head coach Street said: “We were not satisfied with our performance in the World Cup final and we had a point to prove as much to ourselves as anyone.
“We played some good expansive rugby and our big players stood up and 14 months of sheer hard work and preparation went into today’s performance.
“They put the work in all over the park and it feels great that all our hard work has paid off.”
However, despite the victory Street warned his side not to let their level of performance drop, insisting his side would be ready for any imminent New Zealand backlash.
“This is the start of a three test series against the world champions. Although I think we dominated most of the game and a lot of the areas, we have to keep this performance and momentum going.
“New Zealand are the world champions after all and there is no doubt that they will want to bounce back bigger and stronger on Tuesday at Esher, but we will be ready for that.”
England and New Zealand square off again on Tuesday for the second of the three match series at Esher.
Only five players will retain their place in the side, as Street looks to fully utilise all options available to him in the 26-women squad.
Hannah Gallagher and Alexandra Matthews, who both made their England debuts against France earlier this month, come in at flanker and Number 8 respectively.
Street said: “Our players have recovered well and are still buoyed by Saturday’s victory.
“By selecting this starting line-up we have freshened up our side and they will have energy and drive, while we have got a really strong bench who will be able to make a real impact in the second half.
“I have also got confidence in mixing up our young players with the older heads as I trust the strength and depth we’ve got in this squad.”
