Canada ended England's 41-match unbeaten streak, and the Red Roses now have to find another gear before the rematch this weekend.
The Red Roses' unbeaten era is over. Canada beat England for the first time in four years, ending a run of 40 wins and one draw. It is a landmark result for the Canadians, who now get the chance to repeat it when the sides meet again this weekend.
England have set the benchmark in women's rugby for seven years, losing just twice in 73 Tests. That record shows how dominant they have been, but it also shows the pressure of protecting an unbeaten streak. Losing ends that burden, and the squad may play with more freedom as a result.
The defeat also brings a tactical problem. Canada, New Zealand and France have pushed England hard in recent seasons, but the Red Roses always found enough to win. Opponents now have a template for beating them, so England must raise their game again instead of relying on the habits that kept the streak alive.
Head coach John Mitchell, who has lost for the first time in charge of the Red Roses, is treating it as a lesson. He said his team tends to learn faster after a setback. With Canada ready for a second round, England have almost no time to show he is right.
