Ellie Kildunne returned to devastating effect for England, scoring two stunning solo tries to help the Red Roses overcome a determined French side 35-17 and book their place in the Women’s World Cup final.
The fullback, back in action after missing the quarter-final due to a concussion, lit up a bruising semi-final at Ashton Gate with moments of brilliance in each half, as England ran in five tries to set up a tantalising final clash with Canada at Twickenham next Saturday.
Amy Cokayne, Abbie Ward and Megan Jones also crossed for the hosts, who extended their world-record winning streak to 32 matches. But it was far from routine, as France pushed the tournament favourites harder than any team has managed so far.
England captain Zoe Aldcroft hailed the achievement: “I’m so proud we’ve got here, we’re going to a final. I am super excited for the week. We cannot wait to get out there.”
France, missing several key players including suspended captain Manae Feleu, had lost all five of their previous World Cup meetings with England, and 16 consecutive matches overall. Yet they arrived with fight and made England look vulnerable at times, a rarity in recent years.
The Red Roses struck first when Kildunne was released down the left wing by Hannah Botterman. She burned past the French defence and cut inside to finish under the posts, with Zoe Harrison converting the first of her five kicks.
France responded impressively, with Nassira Konde crashing over after sustained pressure midway through the first half, narrowing the gap to 7-5 at the break.
England thought they had scored early in the second half through Abby Dow, but the try was ruled out for a forward pass. They didn’t have to wait long, however, as a powerful driving maul ended with Cokayne dotting down.
Once again, France refused to roll over. A patient attack saw the ball spread wide for Kelly Arbey to touch down in the corner, keeping the pressure on the hosts.
But England’s superior control and discipline began to tell. Ward’s try, followed by another moment of Kildunne magic, slicing through the French defence from deep, finally gave the Red Roses breathing space.
The win was sealed in the dying moments when a Holly Aitchison grubber ricocheted off the post, allowing Jones to pounce for the fifth and final try.
