At the 2009 tournament in Dubai, England got off to a flying start in the group stage, defeating Russia, Japan and the United States without even conceding a point, but they lost out in the quarter-finals to rivals Australia, and had to settle for winning the plate, defeating Canada in the final.

But Staniford, named as England Sevens and IRB Player of the Year last year,claimed that this team has what it takes to go all the way this time around and lift the cup this time around.

"I firmly believe this squad is a really special group of players," said the Wasps centre.

"As individuals the girls are exceptional athletes, tacticians, decision makers and above all are mentally strong.

"Alone these attributes pose such a threat, and we are lucky enough to have 12 players who all possess these qualities."

England finished second in the inaugural IRB Women's Sevens World Series to New Zealand this season, but with a tough group against France, Japan and the host nation Russia, there is no room for complacency.

"Every game at a World Cup will be a massive challenge," said Staniford.

England defeated Australia to win the Marriott London Sevens last month, and will be hoping to take that momentum through to Moscow

"Russia have built up great momentum throughout the European Series and on home soil will be exceptionally tough whilst you never know what to expect from France and Japan.

"We also know that every second counts in Sevens and especially so in a World Cup.

"We found that out to our cost in 2009.

"However, we have learned a lot from losing.

"Losing does not make you a bad team and we have, without a doubt, come through the process stronger, determined and more hungry to achieve our goals.

"The journey to this World Cup has been an unbelievable experience of which I would not change a minute of but I am happy to say we are now ready for the next step."

England are due to kick off against their old enemies France on Saturday morning (June 29) at Gorodok, nearby the Luzhniki Stadium, which will host the men's draw and the latter stages of the women's competition.

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