The red rose brigade had to dig deep to repel the challenge of Wales two weeks ago to scrape home with a 17-7 victory. Kylie Wilson’s team are determined to build on their excellent first half performance from last time out but will have to turn pressure into points if they are to reverse the result.
Wales coach Wilson, said: “The coaching team are excited to see some new players enter the squad, confirming the improved depth at this age group within Wales through the new regional programme.
“[Utility back] Megan Williams was identified through the Dragons and will be keen to earn her first cap.”
Williams, along with fellow replacements Natalie Stone and Rebecca Norris will earn their first Welsh caps if they get off the bench.
Half of the Welsh squad will be playing their last game at this level before moving up to the senior ranks. With just one more round of regional games remaining before Jason Lewis announces his World Cup squad, Sunday’s encounter offers the players a chance to impress.
Wales have selected a physical pack to combat the strong English unit while the backline has been re-shuffled after centre Jess Smith was ruled out due to injury.
Jess Kavanagh comes in at wing with Charlotte Murray moving to outside centre while captain Adi Taviner shifts to inside centre.
Wales manager Sara Davies, said: “Many of the players will be playing their last game at U20 level so they will be determined to leave on a high and put in a performance that earns Wales their first victory over the old enemy at this level.
“Some may have one eye on World Cup selection so that will ensure they give 100 per cent so hopefully that will inspire them to a victory,” she added.
Wales Women’s Under 20s
15 Kerin Lake (Neath Athletic)
14 Sian Perry (Altrincham Kersal)
13 Charlotte Murray (Neath Athletic)
12 Adi Taviner (Neath Athletic)
11 Jess Kavanagh (Dolgellau)
10 Bethan Preece (Neath Athletic)
9 Yasmin Leung (UWIC)
1 Alex Stokes (Neath Athletic)
2 Amy Lawrence (Neath Athletic)
3 Lowri Harris (UWIC)
4 Chloe Howells (Whitland)
5 Shona Powell-Hughes (Neath Athletic)
6 Sian Williams (RAF)
8 Vicky Owens (UWIC)
7 Sioned Harris (UWIC)
Substitutes
16 Natalie Stone (Pontyclun)
17 Sophie Mangano (Kidwelly)
18 Rebecca Norris (Carmarthen Quins)
19 Kathryn Joseph (Neath Athletic)
20 Kayleigh Balchin (Longton)
21 Megan Williams (OA Saints)
22 Rhianydd Morgan (Neath Athletic)
England Under 20s
15 Kay Wilson (Richmond) 14 Rebecca Hughes (Bristol) 13 Amy Wilson Hardy (Hove) 12 Amber Reed (Bristol) 11 Sophie Watkiss (Worcester) 10 Emily Scott 9 Fiona Davidson (Richmond); 1 Sasha Acheson (Shelford) 2 Vicky Fleetwood (Lichfield) 3 Charlotte Male (Bristol – capt) 4 Amy Millar (Worcester), 5 Stacey Maguire (Lichfield), 6 Poppy Cleall (Ellingham & Ringwood), 7 Hannah Field (Wasps), 8 Nicola Hoole (Bristol).
Replacements: 16 Geraldine Thomas (OA Saints), 17 Mille Fuggles (OA Saints), 18 Sarah George (Univeristy of Exeter), 19 Marlie Packer (Bristol), 20 Hannah Gallagher (Saracens), 21 Jessie flowers (Oxford University), 22 Garnet Mackinder (Lichfield).
