There was much excitement in the fan zone in Victoria Gardens in Brighton on Saturday, with supporters commenting on the great reception the women’s game has achieved this year with stadiums selling out.
England players line up for the national anthem (Image: Ben Whitley/PA) It follows the massive support the Lionesses saw during their winning Euros campaign earlier this summer.
Becky Wright, from Brighton, who watched the England game at the busy fan zone on Saturday with Rachel Cowen, said women’s sport is “coming into its own this summer”.
Rachel Cowen and Becky Wright (Image: The Argus) “Lots of people got behind the women’s football so it’s good to see the same for the rugby,” she said.
“People are really getting behind it, it’s brilliant.
“There are so many different people here supporting.
“It’s so good.
“I can’t wait for the Six Nations.”
Georgia Davies, 23, and Sophie Williams, 21, travelled from Heathfield and Polegate to join in with the city action.
Georgia Davies and Sophie Williams (Image: The Argus) Longtime rugby fans, they said they were very excited the games were being held in Sussex and it was great to have the free fan zone.
“We wanted to support the ladies and watch them win,” they said.
Geri and Bruce Hanson said it was fantastic to see stadiums sold out.
The 52 and 55-year-old are also attending this afternoon’s face-off between Ireland and New Zealand at the Amex.
“I find it so empowering to see women play rugby,” said Geri.
“It’s amazing.”
There was also much excitement at the appearance of the Princess of Wales at the England game.
Catherine, who is patron of the Rugby Football Union (RFU), was seated in the stands of the Amex Stadium with England Rugby Union players Marlie Packer and Zoe Aldcroft, as well as Jonathan Webb, vice-chairman of the Executive Board of World Rugby.
The Princess of Wales at the Amex Stadium (Image: Andrew Matthews/PA) Earlier, Prince William, patron of the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU), attended the match between Wales and Fiji at the Sandy Park stadium in Exeter, which saw the Welsh lose.
But it was a different story for England and cheers erupted in the Brighton fan zone when the final whistle blew and their 47-7 win was secured.
Sadia Kabeya and Kelsey Clifford claimed two tries apiece during the game, securing top spot in Pool A.
England’s Sadia Kabeya and Australia’s Tania Naden in action (Image: PA) Jess Breach, Abbie Ward and Sarah Bern also crossed to help the Red Roses come from behind and equal their own world record of 30 consecutive Test victories.
Australia briefly threatened an upset at the stadium following an early score from hooker Adiana Talakai before John Mitchell’s side restored order to underline their status as pre-tournament favourites.
This year’s Women’s Rugby World Cup has been dubbed a “generational moment” and the “biggest-ever global celebration” of women’s rugby, with matches played in front of record crowds.
Both the England vs Australia and Sunday’s Ireland vs New Zealand match at the Albion’s home ground were sold out.
But those who missed out on tickets could enjoy the big screen and array of food and drink put on at the city centre zone which is open until this evening.
England will play Scotland next in the quart finals on Sunday, September 14.
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