Rugby Union: England Women Reach Final

England's women have been dreaming about tomorrow's World Cup final against New Zealand for four years. In 2002 when the same teams met in the final in Barcelona, the Black Ferns won 19-9 and the prospect of finishing as runners-up again fills England's experienced players with dread.

"We have spent so long preparing for this that none of us want to come away disappointed," said Sue Day, England's top try-scorer in the tournament that concludes at Edmonton's Commonwealth Stadium at midnight BST.

It is a daunting task. New Zealand looked strong in their 40-10 semi-final victory over France, playing the game with a pace and relish reminiscent of their male counterparts. England, in contrast, were pushed hard before beating the hosts Canada 20-14 and will be the underdogs.

In terms of motivation, though, England have rarely been so determined. Day, an accountant with KPMG, is one of several players for whom this will be their last World Cup.

"This is my third World Cup and I was part of the team that lost to the Black Ferns in 2002, so I'll be giving it absolutely everything," she said. "Playing New Zealand is going to be a huge challenge. They are the reigning world champions, have won the last few games against us and they'll be confident after coming into the final on the back of some great performances. Games like this, though, don't come along very often. We have certainly done all the preparation we can to be the best in the world."

Victory would be a major boost for the domestic women's game, which continues to fight for recognition. Skill levels and fitness have improved substantially in recent years, even though all the players have full-time jobs. "It's hard that we all have jobs so we can't be full-time athletes like the men, but I would like to say that is our choice and it's not a sacrifice," said Day, a versatile backline player. "To be in the World Cup final makes it all worthwhile." The team have received messages of support from England's head coach, Andy Robinson.

London Irish are planning some novel pre-match entertainment at today's game against Bristol at the Madejski Stadium. The Exiles' new Spanish sponsors, Llanera Properties, will be cooking a giant paella for home officials and have shipped over a 105lb watermelon, one of the biggest on record, from Valencia. The Spanish theme will be completed by flamenco dancers and drummers.

Meanwhile Australia, due to announce their autumn tour party this month, may be without the hooker Jeremy Paul for the November Tests. Paul snapped a finger tendon in last weekend's defeat by South Africa in Johannesburg.