Triumphant England urge unions to level it up

AS England prepared to return to Heathrow airport with another Six Nations crown, there was one final message from the departure lounge: ‘Bring on the World Cup!’ With their European rivals unable to lay a hand on them over the past five weeks, the Red Roses have now set their sights on global domination. They are unbeaten in 23 games and the next time they gather will be to begin preparations for this autumn’s main event in New Zealand. ‘When you get to the World Cup it’s brilliant to have those records but you have got to win the World Cup,’ said prop Sarah Bern, who scored twice in Saturday’s Grand Slam victory over France. ‘We are going out there to win it. Those records are brilliant but our main focus is the World Cup. ‘We always strive for perfection. We can get that one per cent better at all facets of the game, and we’ll continue to do that throughout the season and building into the World Cup.’ Based on the Six Nations evidence, England will be overwhelming favourites to lift the trophy in New Zealand. They have dominated in all areas, scoring 45 tries to four and flexing their muscle at the set-piece in their closing victory at the Stade Jean Dauger. And some of their continental rivals have struggled to live up to the billing. The one-sided results have exposed the gulf in funding with fellow unions. ‘I would absolutely love it if everything was even,’ added Bern. ‘I have a lot of friends who play for Wales, Scotland and Ireland and it is really hard work. Things need to change not just for the rugby but for the girls’ own mental health. ‘Playing a game like this, then having to work tomorrow – I really feel for them. I’m always there to fight for their corner because I think everyone should have equal opportunity.’ England’s biggest World Cup threat should come from the hosts, with the Black Ferns recently appointing Wayne Smith and Graham Henry to their coaching team. ‘To sit here and say we’ve got this in the bag would be stupid,’ said Bern. ‘New Zealand have got some brilliant coaches coming in. France will always come back for the fight. ‘Everyone will turn up for the World Cup. We need to make sure we’re just as turned up as them.’