England women suffered a heart-breaking defeat against the Australian Jillaroos after being trounced 90-4 in an international challenge match in Nevada.
In an emotional statement today, the team sought to address the “elephant in the room” describing the sacrifice they made and the abuse that they faced on social media following the heavy loss.
”We weren’t ready, we worked so hard, made countless sacrifices,” the statement said.
“The comments on social media are absolutely disgusting. Making false accusations and excuses as to why we lost, picking fault with players appearances, questioning their commitment and just being downright disrespectful,” it added
Five York Valkyries payers had made the journey to Las Vegas.
The match took place in the Allegiant Stadium home to the Las Vegas Raiders and was one of a series taking place as well as Wigan Warriors and Warrington Wolfs.
The event was a continuation of a mini-tournament organised by Australia’s National Rugby League in 2024. Over 40,000 fans attended the event last year.
Top players like Georgie Dagger and Liv Wood represented York in the England squad.
Valkyrie coach Lindsay Anfield told Total Rugby League that she fully supported her players following the loss.
“As a club we are so proud to have had these girls representing us and the City of York on this huge stage,” said Anfield.
“What great role models they are for the women’s game and for our girls local to York,’ she added.
England conceded 17 tries from the Jillaroos side, this historic match being the first meeting of the two sides since 2017.
The Australian side showed a strong and dominant play throughout with players like full-back Tamika Upton scoring five tries.
Players Julie Robinsons and Jess Sergis scored hattricks to maintain the Aussies’ dominance.
England’s only try was scored by Georgia Roche who plays for Newcastle Knights in Australia.
Roche was highly emotional at the defeat and embraced Lionesses’ coach Stuart Barrow.
Her try for the team will not go un-noticed and her and the rest of the England squad will regroup and prepare for their next match on the 23rd March against Italy.
A worrying injury for England saw prop Vicky Whitfield carried off the pitch on a stretcher and taken to hospital after a collision into the second half.
The team will continue their fighting spirt into the Women’s Super League beginning on the 16th May
