Quickfire Q&A: Gary Street

It was really important for us. There was a lot of pressure on the team and the management going into these games having not had the results earlier this year. ?˜We had to go out there and perform and there is a lot of relief, not just that we won both games, but that we really did perform well and showcase some really good rugby. We??re not perfect but it was a very pleasing step.

Difficult and challenging but ultimately I think the experience we??ve had will be rewarding. We have shown the great strength and character we have in our squad. The first half against France at Twickenham last Saturday saw a group of players under huge pressure. They are mentally a very strong group and to go out there and play so well in that opening 40 minutes in front of a crowd at Twickenham and the TV cameras I thought was fantastic. This year has given us a lot of resolve. We wanted to show the world that we are back and I think we did that.

Rachael Burford has been extraordinary I think. Her defensive game has been incredible and her experience is hugely important.?˜ Of the newer players this season, Amber Reed has come and done a great job this year and played out of position against Canada. Ceri Large, when she came on against Canada did very well and she has progressed well this year. Sasha Acheson is another player who has come in and expressed herself so there are lots of things to be pleased with. As well as that I thought Katy Mclean??s leadership in these games has been immense and it was great to see Sophie Hemming grab those two tries against Canada?˜ - she was thrilled to have been named vice captain and I think it meant a lot to her.

You can see when that the opposition just have fear in their eyes when she??s there.?˜ Fly halves go further and further away from every set piece and she does bring that aura with her. ?˜Marlie Packer and Hannah Gallagher are both playing well so we??ve got a lot of strength on the flanks but Maggie does bring a special quality with her. ?˜She gives the opposition something to worry about every time. When you are watching her sometimes, she does things and you think ?? how on earth has she done that? She??s certainly one of the best players around.

Win every game. Nothing less will do. I think we have the team to do it and I know that when we are at the top of our game we are as good as anyone.

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