Commenting on the Canadian team, England Head Coach Geoff Richards said:

“They are a very physical and tough side. We beat them well last season, but were fortunate to gain a victory in 2003 when they posed us a lot of questions. I have no doubt that the team touring here this year will be out to beat us and we will need to be at our best to ensure we maintain our good record against them.”

With several key players absent through injury, the Canada games provide an ideal opportunity for some of the younger crop of players to demonstrate that they can compete at the highest level. With selection just a week away competition for places will come down to the last round of Super 4s matches being played this Saturday 6th November at Broadstreet RFC. Despite the injury list Richards has been very impressed with those stepping into the boots of the more senior England players.

“It’s been great to watch and very encouraging for the future of England Women’s Rugby. There are many of the next generation of England players that are already pushing for inclusion in the senior squad and we face some tough selections over the next week or so.”

The two games against Canada are to be played on the 14th November at Richmond RFC, kick-off 2.00pm and on the 17th November at Newbury RFC, kick-off 6.30pm. Details of the venues and ticket prices are as follows:

Sunday 14th November 2004 - Autumn International
England vs Canada
Richmond Athletic Association
The Athletic Ground
Richmond
Surrey
TW9 2SS

KO - 2pm
Adults £5, Under 17s Free

Wednesday 17th November 2004 - Autumn International
England vs Canada
Newbury RFC
Monk Lane
Newbury
Berkshire
RG14 7RW

KO - 6.30pm
Adults £3, Under 17s Free