Several knock-ons and a try being held up stifled England from hitting back early in the contest, allowing Canada to hold a 12-7 lead at the break. Playing with freedom and pace, Canada secured a notable victory that marked only the third loss for England in their past 74 matches.
Canada can now ride the high of this victory into 2027, where their next games are slated to be in the Pacific Four tournament. Meanwhile, England have one more WXV match remaining against the USA.
The second Canadian try came entirely from England's scrappy attack. England were looking for a response to a previous record-ending defeat, but it never came as historical markers and era-enders defined the match.
Reflecting on the contest, stakeholders noted the significance of the outcome. These games are so meaningful and there are going to be situations where there are major turning points, requiring quality decision making from players.
Canada put England's defence under its first proper stress test. While the white wall was impressive with a particular focus on double tackles, it eventually buckled as Omokhuale dotted down for a try.
Though panic will not set in following only the third loss in 74 matches, the result will unsettle the Red Roses, who are unaccustomed to losing and will be pursuing a big response against the in-form Americans.