Scotland scrum-half Leia Brebner-Holden has declared her family is fully united behind her team as they face England in the Rugby World Cup 2025 quarter-finals in Bristol on Sunday. Despite mixed English and Scottish roots, the 23-year-old player insists there are no divided loyalties at home, with everyone rooting for Scotland in this high-stakes clash.
Family Ties and Full Support
Brebner-Holden comes from a family with split national backgrounds, but that has not caused any tension ahead of the match. Her mother is Scottish, while her father and sister are English. Still, she shared that all of them have pledged their support to Scotland for this weekend’s game.
The young athlete mentioned looking back at old family photos where she always wore a Scotland jersey, showing her deep connection to the team from an early age. This personal history has made her choice clear and free of doubt.
She also highlighted how her dad and sister played big roles in her rugby path, helping her grow as a player. Even with their English ties, they are excited to cheer for her and the Scottish side.
- Mother’s Influence: As a Scot, she has always encouraged Brebner-Holden’s rugby dreams and national pride.
- Father and Sister’s Role: They provided key support during her early training, now setting aside English roots to back Scotland.
- Family Unity: No rifts expected, with everyone focused on her success in the quarter-final.
Choosing Scotland Over England
Brebner-Holden never wavered in her decision to play for Scotland instead of England. She grew up embracing her Scottish heritage, and that loyalty runs deep.
In recent talks, she explained that her family’s English side did not sway her. Instead, her lifelong passion for Scotland made the choice straightforward. This commitment shines through as Scotland prepares to challenge the top-ranked Red Roses.
Her story adds a personal layer to the rivalry, showing how players with mixed backgrounds can stay true to one team. Fans see this as a boost for Scotland, who aim to upset England after a strong pool stage run.
Facing a Familiar Mentor on the Field
Adding intrigue to the matchup, Brebner-Holden will go head-to-head with England’s scrum-half Natasha “Mo” Hunt, who mentored her during college and university years. Hunt helped refine her passing skills and overall game.
Brebner-Holden credits Hunt for some of her success but sees it as an edge in the game. This mentor-student dynamic could make the scrum battle one of the most watched parts of the quarter-final.
Scotland’s coach has praised Brebner-Holden’s growth, noting her quick thinking and leadership. Facing her old guide tests that progress in a real way.
| Player | Team | Key Strength | Notable Achievement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leia Brebner-Holden | Scotland | Precise passing | Helped Scotland reach quarter-finals with strong pool performances |
| Natasha “Mo” Hunt | England | Experience in big games | Key player in England’s unbeaten pool stage run |
| Other Scotland Scrum-Halves | Scotland | Team depth | Contributed to wins against lower-ranked teams |
Match Preview and Stakes
England topped Pool A with wins over all opponents, including a record-breaking victory against Samoa. Scotland started strong but lost to Canada, setting up this tough quarter-final.
The game in Bristol carries historical weight, as these rivals often deliver intense battles. Scotland hopes to pull off an upset, building on recent improvements in women’s rugby.
Brebner-Holden’s story highlights the human side of the sport, where family and mentors shape careers. A win could propel Scotland further in the tournament, which runs until late September.
Experts predict a close contest, with England’s form giving them the edge. Yet Scotland’s spirit and players like Brebner-Holden could turn the tide.
Broader Impact on Women’s Rugby
This quarter-final spotlights the growth of women’s rugby worldwide. The 2025 World Cup in England has drawn huge crowds, with matches broadcast widely.
Brebner-Holden’s mixed family tale resonates with fans, showing how the sport bridges divides. It also encourages young players with diverse backgrounds to pursue their passions.
Scotland’s journey inspires underdogs, while England’s dominance sets a high bar. The outcome could influence future tournaments and player development.
As the match approaches, stories like this add emotional depth. Share your thoughts on family loyalties in sports or predict the winner in the comments below. Your views help build the conversation around this exciting event.
