"France were cast as firm underdogs but they let their actions show what they thought of that with a thoroughly impressive performance, particularly in the first half, frustrating and dismantling the Red Roses. Pre-match it was not marked out as one that was going to be close on the scoreboard because of the disruptions to France's squad. They had two players banned and two key stars ruled out with injury in Lina Queyroi and Joanna Grisez."
"A complete 80 minutes has not been on display from England at this tournament and it is something their fans will have to wait to see if they can put it together in the final. Their defence in this semi-final was impressive at times, particularly through Meg Jones at the breakdown and Hannah Botterman at set piece, but their attack needed to be more clinical."
England face Canada at a sold-out Twickenham with a chance for trophy glory and an opportunity to end 11 years without a title. France applied immense pressure in the semi-final, particularly in the first half, and disrupted England's game despite having squad disruptions and key absences. England showed defensive strengths through Meg Jones at the breakdown and Hannah Botterman in set piece, but attacking errors and miscommunication cost scoring chances. A complete 80-minute performance has not yet been produced, and consistency will be crucial in the final. Ellie Kildunne's return added spark to England's running game.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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