The Amy Cokayne Column: Q&As, record crowds and a nervy watch
In the final instalment of her Six Nations column, Amy Cokayne reflects on a record breaking week at Twickenham.
France week, the final game of the 2023 Six Nations, winner takes all. You throw in a record crowd at the Home of England Rugby, the last game for two coaches that have been guiding us for over eight years, and it was always going to be a huge occasion.
As a non-playing contracted player, I was asked to do a couple of Q&As in some of the hospitality areas. This is definitely not my comfort zone; however, it’s an area I am learning to love as it gives you a great connection to the fans.
One of the rooms had almost 900 people in it, and that blew my mind as I’m quite sure I have played games for England with less people watching. So, to have 900 in one hospitality room gave me an early indication of how big the occasion was.
This experience was matched by the crowds on the drive in. I have been to big games at Twickenham before, so the crowds felt natural, but I had to remind myself that this time the crowds were here just for the Red Roses. Hours before kick off and it was so busy; there was that game day buzz that is unmatched. The photo of all the fans waiting to see the girls get off the bus is just incredible and having spoken to the girls afterwards I know that’s a moment that will stay with them forever!
I was sat with the friends and family in the crowd. It is always nice to see some friendly faces. We were sat in the lower section opposite where the girls lined up to do the anthem. I know as a player I’m always scanning the crowd trying to find my family, so it was funny seeing the girls doing the same thing and the change in expressions when they’ve finally found them or trying to sneak a little wave.
The game itself I thought started a little nervously. There was a kick battle where I felt sorry for all the forwards in the middle trying to commit to the kick chase. Eventually the game opened up with a classic Abby Dow try; but what a game of two halves! I would have been more than happy to see the girls put 50 points on France, with France leaving with a doughnut; but I do think it was good for the crowd to see what turned out to be a close game. luckily, France’s comeback was just a little too late. The whole day was absolutely amazing and to see the girls lift the trophy was the cherry on top.
The crowd was excellent throughout the game. It was a different demographic to a usual Twickenham crowd. There were lots of families there, lots of young supporters and they cheered the girls on even when things weren’t going England’s way. They made a massive difference, and this definitely helped the girls to get over the line for the win.
Half time was also different for us with the addition of some great entertainment in the form of the Sugababes. They got the crowd singing and dancing with some absolute classic bangers. I wonder what my gal Adele is doing in 2025?
This TikTok Six Nations symbolises the end of an era for the team: from Sarah Hunter's retirement and Midds (Simon Middleton) leaving us as head coach. The next time the squad gets together to compete at the new WXV tournament in New Zealand at the end of October, the camp could have a completely different vibe to it.
For me now it is all about getting baby cow 2.0 healed and rehabbed. I am working hard with some great people supporting me, so no doubt I will be back stronger than ever. I have a goal to play again this season in the Premier 15s, so watch this space.
