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Canada’s dream of winning a Women’s Rugby World Cup title ended Saturday with a 33–13 loss to England.
Still, rugby supporters in Regina say the run was historic and proof that the Canadians can compete with the world’s best.
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At District Brewing, dozens packed the pub to watch the final.
For longtime fan Karl Fix, the game was more than a sport.
“It’s my religion, rugby. It’s like going to church. We’re playing the world championship, you have to be there,” he said, describing the electric atmosphere as coffee mugs gave way to pints during the early morning kickoff.
Fans watch the Women’s Rugby World Cup final outdoors on the District Brewing patio in Regina. (Jacob Bamhour/980 CJME)
England capitalizes on mistakes
England, the world’s top-ranked team, showed their power with tries from Ellie Kildunne, Amy Cokayne, Abbie Ward and two from Alex Matthews. Fly-half Zoe Harrison added four conversions.
Canada’s scoring came from Asia Hogan-Rochester, who touched down twice, and a penalty from captain Sophie de Goede.
The stats told the story of the gap. England made 49 tackles to Canada’s 36, missed fewer tackles, and slowed Canada’s ruck play. Both teams ran for about 140 metres, but England forced 11 Canadian penalties and converted errors into points.
Regina player and coach Adam Albeck said the Canadians looked tighter than usual.
“They looked like the stage was too big for them,” he said. “Their set pieces were terrible, and England took advantage of every mistake.”
Rugby fans crowd inside District Brewing to watch Canada face England in the Women’s Rugby World Cup final. (Jacob Bamhour/980 CJME)
Pride in the players
Still, fans emphasized Canada’s resilience. Brewery CEO Joe Van Heerden, who grew up in South Africa, said the team proved they belong on the world stage.
“England is a fully professional team… for Canada to beat New Zealand and get this far is something to be really proud of,” he said.
Local player Christie Westbrook echoed that pride.
“We’ve broken through to show people these athletes are incredible. This isn’t just a washover; we are here to fight.”
Regina’s local connection
For many, seeing Regina’s Gabby Senft on the roster made the moment even more special.
“She’s one of our impact players… It’s cool to have a girl from Regina represent us there,” said her former teammate Juliana Cornish.
Her father, former Canadian player Dick Cornish, added that the local ties energize fans.
“Gabby is a local player from Regina… It’s great to see a local gal involved at that level,” he said.
Regina player and coach Adam Albeck says Canada looked uncharacteristically tight in the World Cup loss to England. (Jacob Bamhour/980 CJME)
Looking ahead
England extended their record win streak to 33 matches with this victory. Still, Canadian fans say the scoreboard doesn’t define the tournament.
“Everyone’s hopeful Canada can make that next step and be World Cup champions,” Dick Cornish said.
“Their game has matured and become very different from how they used to play.”
For supporters in Regina, the loss was hard to swallow. Still, the passion for Canadian rugby and its growing presence on the world stage was undeniable.
