England Suffers Historic Defeat as Australia Dominates with 90-4 Victory

England endured their heaviest-ever defeat in international women’s rugby league, falling 90-4 to reigning world champions Australia in Las Vegas. Tamika Upton starred for the Jillaroos, scoring five of their 17 tries in a ruthless display.

A One-Sided Encounter

Facing their toughest challenge since the 2021 World Cup semi-finals, England struggled against a dominant Australian side stacked with NRL Women’s Premiership talent. The Jillaroos ran riot, with Julia Robinson and Jessica Sergis scoring hat-tricks, while Isabelle Kelly crossed twice. Other try-scorers included Tiana Penitani, Shannon Mato, Jakiya Whitfeld, and Keilee Joseph.

Despite the heavy loss, England had the final say, as Georgia Roche—who plays club rugby in Australia—scored in the dying moments.

England Overwhelmed from the Start

The tone was set early as Australia raced to four tries in the opening 15 minutes. Robinson opened the scoring from an Ali Brigginshaw pass, before Penitani capitalized on a Kezie Apps break. Tarryn Aiken’s precision kicks set up Upton and Mato, and England found themselves in deep trouble.

By halftime, the score had ballooned to 38-0, with Upton securing a hat-trick and Robinson adding a second. The Lionesses were left chasing shadows as the Jillaroos showcased their attacking prowess.

Injury Blow and More Australian Tries

England’s night worsened when prop Vicky Whitfield had to be stretchered off following a heavy collision with Sarah Togatuki just 10 seconds into the second half. After a lengthy delay, Australia picked up where they left off, continuing to pile on the points.

Upton grabbed two more tries, Kelly was set up unselfishly by Yasmin Clydsdale, and Sergis—who had an earlier try disallowed—finally got on the scoreboard. Robinson secured her hat-trick, before Whitfeld, Sergis, and Joseph added to England’s misery.

A Harsh Lesson for England

This crushing defeat surpassed England’s previous record loss, a 52-4 World Cup defeat to New Zealand in 2017. The Lionesses last faced Australia eight years ago, suffering a 38-0 loss, but this result was far more brutal.

At full-time, an emotional Roche was consoled by teammates and even Australian players, highlighting the painful lesson for England. Stuart Barrow’s squad has a long road ahead if they are to compete with the world’s best.