OTTAWA — Sophie de Goede scored three tries Friday as Canada defeated England 31-22 in the Rugby Rematch Tour of the WXV Global Series. It marked the second straight win for the Canadian women over the top-ranked English side following last week’s 24-21 triumph in Toronto. It also marked the first time England has lost two-consecutive matches since 2016. The win in Toronto also snapped the Red Roses’ 41-game unbeaten streak. Canada also ended England’s 39-game winning streak with a 26-26 draw last September in Exeter. The first half was a lot of bend but no break for both sides as each nation had opportunities but the score was just 12-7 after 40 minutes. Maddie Feaunati opened the scoring with a try for the Red Roses in the eighth minute and after the conversion by Zoe Harrison England led 7-0. Canada got that back with a try from Julia Omokhualu in the 16th minute that was converted by de Goede, who then scored a try of her own on a long run to give Canada a 12-7 edge at halftime. The crowd of 14,117 was not quite the record-breaking gathering of 18,621 that attended the match in Toronto last Friday to set a North American record for attendance at a women’s rugby match, but they were extremely vocal. The fans were boisterous, erupting each time the Canadian side gained some momentum. They even took the time to serenade England captain Megan Jomes with Happy Birthday as she was celebrating her 30th birthday. The Red Roses struck quickly for 10 points early in the second half using a drop goal from Harrison and a try for Amy Cokayne to take a 17-12 lead. Canada quickly regained the lead on de Goede’s second try and conversion of the match gave Canada a 19-17 lead in the 55th minute. DaLeaka Menin and Savannah Bauder then scored in the 62nd and 64th minutes to put Canada up 31-17. Emma Sing scored a try in the 81st minute to pull England to within 31-22, but after a failed conversion the final whistle blew. This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 23, 2026. Darren Desaulniers, The Canadian Press
