Harrison intercepts late to give England 26-19 win over New Zealand

Zoe Harrison scored an interception try in the 81st minute as England beat New Zealand 26-19 in the WXV Global Series at Allianz Stadium. BBC Sport reported that the fly-half seized a pass as the Black Ferns attempted to counter-attack with the scores tied, moments after she had missed a penalty that could have put England ahead.

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The finish prevented a second consecutive draw for the Red Roses, whose record run of 39 victories ended in a 26-26 result against Canada the previous weekend. A crowd of 59,871 watched England return to winning ways. New Zealand, the last side to defeat England in the 2022 World Cup final, suffered their first loss under head coach Whitney Hansen.

England scored first through Claudia Moloney-MacDonald, but New Zealand took a 12-7 lead into the interval. According to the Guardian's match report, Maddie Feaunati's 40-metre break helped launch the attack that eventually produced England's opening try. The hosts also relied on Jess Breach's tackle close to the line to stop Ayesha Leti-I'iga during a sustained spell of New Zealand pressure.

Amy du Plessis supplied New Zealand's response by collecting a long pass from Lucy Packer, kicking ahead from halfway and chasing into an uncovered corner to score. Leti-I'iga, who had an earlier try disallowed, then crossed to help put the visitors ahead. The Guardian reported that New Zealand entered the contest having won their previous eight matches.

Ellie Kildunne and Breach combined for Kildunne's try after the break, before a high tackle on Marlie Packer brought a yellow card for Veisinia Mahutariki-Fakalelu. Packer left the field and Abi Burton replaced her. England quickly used their numerical advantage, with Breach scoring, but Mererangi Paul's converted try brought New Zealand level again with the closing stages approaching.

Harrison's decisive intervention ultimately rewarded England after her unsuccessful late kick. BBC Sport reported that the victory was their 14th consecutive win at Allianz Stadium. England next travel to Canada for Tests in Toronto and Ottawa to complete their three-match series, while New Zealand's next assignment is against France in Hamilton.