January 24th, 2006
England Women’s A campaign kicks-off this Sunday (January 29th, 2.30pm at Imber Court) with what is set to be a highly competitive clash against a team ranked 6th for the forthcoming Rugby World Cup, the USA Eagles.
England A coach Amanda Bennett, who is assisted by former Northampton player Martin Hynes, has picked one of the A team’s strongest ever starting line-ups which includes four players who toured New Zealand with England last autumn.
Bennett said: “This squad just shows how much all the players have improved over the last few years and how strong our elite squad of 44 is as we prepare for the World Cup this summer. I’ve been able to include a handful of players who have quite a few caps under their belts as well as some younger ones who have a real chance to stand up and get themselves noticed.
“I am delighted to be able to welcome back Jenny Lyne into the starting line-up. She is a seasoned international, who also played in the 2002 World Cup final. She is returning to international action after having two children. Karen Jones will also add a wealth of experience at number eight.”
The USA are currently on a three-test tour, also playing Scotland and Ireland this month. Bennett, whose side are also set to take on France, Italy and the Nomads, added: “In my opinion the USA are a top five side so this is going to be a tough clash for our team. I am expecting them to be well-drilled and well organised and a side who are certainly worthy of their status in the world rankings. This should be a very competitive match and probably our toughest of the season.”
England A v USA team:
1 Hannah Dawson Thirsk
2 Ann O’Flynn Lichfield/Army
3 Katy Storie Clifton
4 Rebecca Essex Worcester
5 Jennifer Lyne Richmond
6 Sarah Hunter Lichfield
7 Lois Moulding Worcester
8 Karen Jones Wasps
9 Louisa Seymour Saracens
10 Alice Richardson Worcester
11 Emily Cooke Clifton
12 Shauna Vetch Thirsk
13 Rachael Burford Henley
14 Amber Penrith Worcester
15 Katie McLean Thirsk
Replacements:
16 Emma Leyland Richmond
17 Sophie Hemming Clifton
18 Emma Dresser Lichfield
19 Heather Fisher Clifton
20 Sonia Green Saracens
21 Claire Allen Worcester
22 Sarah Marsh Wasps
England A fixtures:
England A v USA January 29th, Imber Court, kick-off 2.30pm
England A v Italy February 12th, Imber Court, kick-off 2.30pm
England A v Nomads, February 25th, Henley RFC, kick-off 3.00pm
England A v France, March 11th, Bondoufle , Paris, kick-off 3pm
England A v Nomads, March 18th, Old Albanians RFC, kick-off1pm
Ends…
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