England survive Canada scare to reach Women's Rugby World Cup final

England absorbed a fierce challenge from Canada to win 26-19 in Auckland on Saturday and book a place in the women's Rugby World Cup final.

The top-ranked Red Roses notched their 30th successive win, but not before surviving a scare from the Canucks, who threatened to pull off a major upset at Eden Park.

England booked their place in a sixth successive final and will line up next week against either defending champions New Zealand or France, who were to contest the second semi-final later on Saturday.

Two tries to winger Abby Dow - including a length-of-the-field score - proved crucial for England, along with the boot of centre Emily Scarratt, who slotted three penalty goals in her 11-point haul.

Otherwise, the tournament favourites were matched in all departments by a Canada side who trailed 15-12 at halftime and were just four points behind when replacement forward Tyson Beukeboom crossed with 12 minutes remaining.

England captain Sarah Hunter said her team showed character to repel another late Canada assault.

"It went right down to the wire and I'm so proud of the way the team dug in at the end. We've come here to get into that game next week," Hunter said.

"Canada were relentless, they came and they came and they came.

"I think it will go down as one of the great semi-finals. For the rugby fans out there, that was a great showcase of what the women's game is all about."

England raced 12-0 clear when flanker Marlie Packer and Dow scored tries in the opening 15 minutes.

However, Canada levelled the scores when flanker Karen Paquin and centre Alysha Corrigan crossed, both set up by smart play from scrumhalf Justine Pelletier.

Scarratt landed penalties either side of the interval before the game's most decisive moment.

A long