VALKYRIES winger Lydia Thompson helped England Women Sevens team take home the bronze medal in the sport’s first outing at the Commonwealth Games.
Led by Abbie Brown, the England side defeated Canada 24-19 in the bronze medal match at the Robina Stadium on the Gold Coast in Australia,
England had progressed through their pool by defeating Fiji (17-5), Wales (45-0) and losing to Australia (29-12), but were beaten by New Zealand in the semi-final on day three of the competition.
Against Canada, England dominated possession in the opening exchanges and were rewarded following a Canada sin-bin as Thompson stepped through the defence to score.
Deborah Fleming’s fourth try of the tournament got England’s second score before she offloaded to Claire Allan who secured their third try of the match.
Following a Canada try just before half-time, Jess Breach’s first score in Australia restored the three-try advantage.
Two quick-fire Canada tries then made for a tense finish but England held on to secure the bronze medal.
Head coach James Bailey said: “I’m over the moon and incredibly proud of what is a very special group. They’ve come together and have put in a brilliant performance across the weekend – I’m a very proud coach.
“The success is down to the culture and the environment that the girls have created. That bronze medal match was all about that culture and the willingness to fight for each other down to the last minute – that’s what it’s all about.”