Red Roses Celebrate Historic Grand Slam Victory at Twickenham
The Red Roses have achieved a remarkable feat, clinching their fourth consecutive grand slam and seventh title in a row at the Women’s Six Nations. This week’s Unseen gallery features captivating moments captured by Marc Aspland during their nail-biting victory against France at Twickenham, where they triumphed by just a single point, igniting jubilant celebrations among fans.
Reflective of the stadium’s nickname, the Cabbage Patch pub temporarily transformed into “The Red Roses Patch” throughout the Women’s Six Nations. A striking mural showcasing England’s captain Zoe Aldcroft alongside vice-captains Marlie Packer and Meg Jones was created by street artists MurWalls. Equipment used: Canon EOS R3; RF24-70mm (set at 55mm); 1/800th sec; f8; ISO 400.
An exciting new tradition embraced by the England Women’s squad involves walking alongside the West Stand, as they pass through a corridor of cheering fans before entering through the iconic gates. The sculptures present at the venue symbolize strength, action, and the thrill of rugby. Currently, they represent the “Spirit of Rugby,” leaving fans to wonder when a female counterpart will be added. Equipment used: Canon EOS R1; RF70-200mm lens (set at 100mm); 1/1000th sec; f8; ISO 400.
More than 37,000 fans witnessed a delightful spring afternoon at Twickenham on Saturday. Among them, a lively group of supporters caught my attention just before the match commenced. Equipment used: Canon EOS R1; RF400mm lens; 1/1600th sec; f5.6; ISO 500.
In an explosive first half, the Red Roses scored five tries within the initial 23 minutes. However, France responded swiftly, reducing the gap to 31-21. In the 49th minute, Aldcroft propelled the team forward by scoring again, increasing the pressure on the French side. Equipment used: Canon EOS R1; RF400mm lens; 1/2000th sec; f4; ISO 500.
Having made nine changes from their previous match against Scotland, where Abby Dow excelled, she scored just three minutes into the game and later secured her second try in the 58th minute while avoiding a tackle from Manaé Feleu. Equipment used: Canon EOS R3; RF70-200mm zoom lens (set at 145mm); 1/1600th sec; f2.8; ISO 800.
LE CRUNCH! This captivating sequence captures the split-second moment as Red Roses prop Maud Muir charges forward, effectively handing off Yllana Brosseau with an unconventional move. Equipment used: Canon EOS R1; RF400mm lens; 1/2000th sec; f3.5; ISO 500.
France applied pressure in the dying moments of the game, showcasing a relentless attack. This marked the first time during the tournament that England conceded points in the final 20 minutes. With time running out, replacement prop Rose Bernadou adjusted her hair, a moment captured just before the final whistle. Equipment used: Canon EOS R1; RF400mm lens; 1/1600th sec; f3.2; ISO 800.
My favorite series of images follows the match, capturing the moment when Aldcroft was handed the trophy, only to drop its base—a priceless expression of joy and surprise. Equipment used: Canon EOS R1; RF70-200mm zoom lens (set at 200mm); 1/1600th sec; f3.5; ISO 800.
These three images illustrate how different focal lengths can lead to diverse perspectives. The first was taken with a 200mm lens, the middle with a 400mm lens, and the final frame offers a wide-angle view of Aldcroft lifting the trophy. Equipment used: Canon EOS R1/R3; 200mm, 400mm, and 70mm lenses; 1/2000th sec; f5.6; ISO 800.
In a heartfelt moment, Abbie Ward embraced her daughter Hallie before and after the match, her smile radiating pure joy. Equipment used: Canon EOS R1; RF400mm; 1/2000th sec; f4; ISO 800.
Aldcroft’s exuberant leap of joy encapsulated England’s victory, instilling confidence ahead of the upcoming World Cup on home turf this summer. Equipment used: Canon EOS R3; RF70-200mm zoom lens (set at 88mm); 1/1600th sec; f3.5; ISO 800.
Last week, I had the pleasure of meeting Claudia Macdonald for a feature and was fortunate enough to greet her again after the match for a congratulatory hug. She took the time to engage with fans by signing her socks and taking selfies with an ecstatic young supporter. Equipment used: Canon EOS R3; RF24-70mm wide-angle zoom lens; 1/1000th sec; f3.5; ISO 800.
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