Red Roses Crush USA to Extend 35-Year Winning Streak 2026

England's Red Roses put their recent defeats behind them by crushing the USA to extend their 35-year winning streak. The world champions showed their class with a dominant performance in the WXV Global Series, proving that outside the top three teams, there is still a significant gap to be closed.

The last time the USA claimed a victory over England was in the 1991 Rugby World Cup, and since then the Red Roses have won all 22 matches they have played against the Eagles. Friday's outing was no different, as England contained the USA's threats and ran out comfortable winners.

England's Winning Streak: A 35-Year Legacy

England's 35-year winning streak against the USA is a testament to the Red Roses' dominance in women's rugby. Despite recent losses to Canada, which showed that the top sides have caught up with the world No 1 team, England demonstrated that they remain a force to be reckoned with.

The USA headed into the match in good form with five consecutive wins, including victories over Wales and Ireland. Their No 8 Freda Tafuna had been one of the standouts across all teams during the WXV, but England were able to contain her and limit the hosts' firepower.

Key Players Step Up for Red Roses

There were two key elements to England's win: Claudia Moloney-MacDonald and a strong second-half performance from the front row pack. Moloney-MacDonald, who may have been dropped from the matchday 23 against Canada, responded perfectly with an incredible four tries.

It was the exact retort that head coach John Mitchell would have wanted. The Exeter Chiefs star stepped up when it mattered most, showcasing the depth and resilience of the squad.

• England extended their 35-year winning streak against the USA with a dominant victory.
• Claudia Moloney-MacDonald scored four tries after being dropped from the previous matchday squad.
• The Red Roses' front row pack delivered a strong second-half performance to secure the win.
• USA's Freda Tafuna was contained by England's defense despite her impressive WXV form.
• The win reaffirms England's status as the world No 1 team, despite recent losses to Canada.

Match Analysis: England vs USA

England's victory was built on a solid defensive effort and clinical finishing. The USA, despite their recent successes, could not match the Red Roses' intensity and precision. The match highlighted the gap between the top three teams and the rest of the field.

The Red Roses' ability to bounce back from adversity is a hallmark of their success. With the World Cup on the horizon, this win serves as a timely reminder of their championship pedigree. The background to this story is set out in Shaun Edwards Inspires Red Roses with Mother's Memory. A related thread runs through Shaun Edwards Joins England Red Roses as Defence Consultant.

What's Next for the Red Roses?

England will look to build on this momentum as they continue their WXV campaign. The team will need to address the areas that led to their recent defeats to Canada if they are to maintain their dominance on the world stage. Earlier coverage in Zoe Harrison Last-Gasp Try Seals Thrilling Red Roses Win shows how the argument developed. A closer look at the same subject appears in Red Roses Defeat to Canada Ends Unbeaten Run, England Vows Comeback.

The USA, meanwhile, will take positives from their recent form but will be disappointed to have been so comprehensively beaten. They will need to regroup and find a way to compete with the top teams. Anyone following the wider picture can start with England Rugby Comeback Overwhelms Australia in Second Half.

FAQ

England's victory over the USA was a statement of intent. After back-to-back defeats to Canada, the Red Roses needed to respond, and they did so in emphatic fashion. The 35-year winning streak against the USA remains intact, and the world champions have sent a clear message to their rivals.

As the WXV Global Series continues, all eyes will be on England to see if they can maintain their dominance. The recent losses to Canada showed that the gap at the top is closing, but this performance against the USA proved that the Red Roses are still the team to beat.

The Red Roses' next challenge will be to build on this win and address the issues that led to their defeats against Canada. With the World Cup approaching, every match is crucial for England's preparation.

For a closer look at England's recent setbacks, see how Canada stunned the Red Roses in back-to-back defeats. The end of England's winning streak in Canada was a wake-up call for the world champions. And in a thrilling encounter, Canada ended the Red Roses' 41-match unbeaten streak in Toronto, signaling a shift in the women's rugby landscape.

Despite those setbacks, England's ability to rebound against the USA shows their resilience. The Red Roses remain a formidable force, and their 35-year winning streak against the USA is a record they will be eager to protect in future encounters.

As the WXV series progresses, the Red Roses will be looking to assert their dominance once again. With key players like Claudia Moloney-MacDonald stepping up, England's depth and talent are undeniable. The world champions are not ready to relinquish their crown just yet.