Rugby League World Cup: England Women head coach Craig Richards revels in Royal approval as hosts down Canada | Rugby League News

The England women met the Princess of Wales, who was present at the DW Stadium on her first engagement as the RFL’s royal patron, after running 11 tries in their Group A clash with Canada.

The England women met the Princess of Wales after their win over Canada

Craig Richards reveled in royal approval after England swept Canada 54-4 to confirm their place in the semi-finals of the Women’s Rugby World Cup.

Tara-Jane Stanley led England’s 11 tries with a hat-trick plus 10 points with the boot, while Leah Burke and Hollie Dodd each helped each other to a brace as England backed up their first win against Brazil .

Afterwards, head coach Richards and his team met the Princess of Wales, who was present at the double-header at the DW Stadium in Wigan on her first engagement as Royal Patron of the Rugby Football League.

“We met her as a team, which was absolutely fantastic, and it was also a huge honor for me,” Richards said.

“Where I’m from you don’t think you’ll ever be able to meet a Royal and especially with the way it was done it was beautiful.

“She talked about women and what they go through, and the nature of the game. She had obviously done her homework on rugby league and she talked a lot about girls and how they can be so inspiring and models.”

Richards has brought his remaining seven squad members into the line-up and is now closer to knowing his best side as he looks ahead to the final group game against Papua New Guinea on Wednesday.

Tara-Jane Stanley came through the whitewash three times as England took control in the second half.

Richards admitted he was worried about the tougher test the Orchids will likely provide, having come through their first two games with minimal opposition.

“What we really need is a close game,” Richards said. “We want to win but we need a tough game and I think Papua New Guinea will give it to us.

“It’s not just about winning games, it’s about the tournament, and we need to be tested a bit more than we are right now. A really good showdown would do us a lot of good. “