5. MADDIE FEAUNATI DEBUT: PACIFIC ISLAND FLAIR BOLSTERS ENGLAND BACK ROW
The opening match of the Red Roses’ campaign also marked the start of the England career of Maddie Feaunati. Having recently arrived at Exeter Chiefs, the back-row formerly plied her trade in New Zealand with Wellington Pride and also the Hurricanes. Feaunati was reportedly approached with a contract to play for the Black Ferns, but instead opted to pursue a career with the Red Roses, and got started on this mission out in Parma.
Feaunati had big boots to fill upon her arrival, as she replaced Marlie Packer in the back-row, who left to an immense ovation upon her 100th appearance. Feaunati had an instant impact from the back of the scrum, as she reshuffled the deck in moving Sadie Kabeya across the flanks. Feaunati’s impact was immediatly felt in attack, as she sent some enticing offloads to the supporting ball carriers, and narrowly provided an assist over the try-line. The back-row was equally impressive in defence, as she flew into tackles with a head of steam out in Parma.
There is plenty of contention for places in the England back-row, yet with the suspension of Sarah Beckett could well miss out on next weekend’s match against Wales, Feaunati could well get her first start at Ashton Gate. Marlie Packer has previously impressed at the back of the scrum, and should the captain be moved to number eight for the match against Wales, the door could remain open for Feaunati to start in her first Red Roses fixture next weekend.