Shoshanah Seumanutafa’s game-winning try against England on Friday highlighted her rising influence in women’s rugby and underscored her evolving international career. The 27-year-old centre from White Rock, British Columbia, demonstrated her characteristic dynamism in the closing minutes of Canada’s match at Toronto’s BMO Field, coming off the bench to secure a 24-21 victory over the top-ranked Red Roses during the WXV Global Series.
Seumanutafa, known to teammates and friends as Shoshi, entered the game in the 17th minute, replacing vice-captain Alex Tessier, who was sidelined for a head injury assessment. Late in the contest, she received a pass from Gabby Senft, evaded an English defender despite calf cramps, and crossed the try line in the corner, marking her second international try in 29 appearances in 15s rugby. The score ended England’s 41-match unbeaten streak, a run that had persisted since their last defeat to Canada in 2016.
Her path to this achievement reflects a commitment to growth and adaptability. Seumanutafa, whose father Pose is of Samoan descent, took a decisive step in early 2024 by relocating to New Zealand to pursue opportunities in elite club rugby. After reaching out to Crystal Kaua, then head coach of the Chiefs Manawa, she joined the Super Rugby Aupiki competition, playing two seasons with the Hamilton-based team. Prior to that, she competed for Counties Manukau in the National Provincial Championship.
This stint in New Zealand not only exposed her to a style of play aligned with Canada’s free-flowing approach under coach Kevin Rouet but also deepened her connection to her Pacific Island heritage. She participated in the haka alongside her team, valuing the cultural significance of the traditional Māori war dance, which the Chiefs now reserve for special occasions rather than every match.
Having family ties in Hamilton provided Seumanutafa with a supportive base while abroad. Looking ahead, she plans to continue her professional career in Japan, joining a growing number of Canadian players seeking development opportunities in the competitive Asian rugby environment.
In addition to her 15-a-side experience, Seumanutafa has also represented Canada in rugby sevens, contributing one try and three conversions across seven HSBC SVNS tournaments. Her versatility across formats underscores her value to the national program.
The recent victory over England in Toronto follows a 26-26 draw between the two teams last month in Exeter, which ended England’s previous 39-match winning run. Prior to the recent resurgence, Canada had lost 14 consecutive matches to England, including a 33-13 defeat in the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup final held at Twickenham before a record crowd of 81,885 spectators.
Seumanutafa’s family attended Friday’s match, with her parents and aunt seated mere meters from where she scored, making the moment particularly meaningful. Canada and England are scheduled to meet again on Friday in Ottawa to conclude their WXV series encounters.