Maddie Feaunati's sensational performance in England's 26-19 victory over New Zealand earned the number eight the Mitsubishi Electric Player of the Week award, edging out USA's Freda Tafuna and Australia's Faitala Moleka.
While Feaunati didn't score, her role in setting up England's attacking platform was key to countering the Black Ferns' top-notch defence. The back-rower won several contact metres and looked unstoppable running from the back of the scrum, outpacing and outmuscling tacklers, giving England a way to break into the opposition's 22.
However, the Exeter Chiefs back-rower's defensive contribution was also crucial, as she finished the clash with 23 successful tackles, won a ruck from the New Zealanders, and forced two handling errors from the opposition. One such moment was a turnover just meters from the English try line, with Feaunati stealing the ball to halt the Black Ferns' bid for a third try with only seconds remaining until half-time.
The back-rower's physicality and technical class proved decisive at key moments, injecting a boost of energy into England and earning her the Player of the Match award in one of the biggest fixtures of the season.
A Women's Rugby World Cup winner, the 24-year-old has made a sensational start to the WXV Global Series, with her Player of the Week award likely just the beginning of what promises to be an outstanding campaign.
Speaking after the game, Feaunati was elated with the Red Roses' resolve to go for the win"
"It was like the ultimate test match. One of the best games I have played in. We put ourselves under a lot of pressure, they put us under a lot of pressure, and I think that’s the entertaining game that women’s rugby is at the moment.
"These matches bring us pressure, and you also find out where you are at."
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