Expectation won't weigh on Red Roses ahead of final says coach

TEAM READY TO 'LEAN IN' TO BIG HOME CROWD

- By JAMES TONEY

SARAH Hunter insists the Red Roses won't wilt under the weight of expectation from a world-record crowd in this weekend's Rugby World Cup fina

A sellout 82,000 - the biggest women’s rugby crowd of all time - is expected at a rocking Allianz Stadium, and Hunter knows the power of home advantage ahead of Saturday’s historic final against Canada.

Three years ago, the England defence coach was captain when a then-record 42,579 fans made a critical difference in inspiring New Zealand to a narrow 34-32 win.

And North Shields-born Hunter believes home advantage could be decisive again, even if the biggest battle is still to come this week.

“Having these fans supporting us will galvanise this team. You can feel their energy and I know it's a cliché, but they are the 16th player for us,” said Hunter.