England's Jones and Bern Identify Areas for Improvement Following Convincing Win

Despite kicking off their Women's Six Nations campaign with a resounding 33-12 victory over Ireland, England's Megan Jones and Sarah Bern conceded that there is still room for improvement. The world champions, who last played in the World Cup final against Canada in September, secured their 34th consecutive Test win thanks to two tries from Bern and one each from Amy Cockayne, Jess Breach, and Ellie Kildunne. In front of a record-breaking Women's Six Nations crowd of 77,120 at Allianz Stadium, England claimed a bonus-point win, but Jones acknowledged that the team's performance was not flawless. "Nerves were inevitable going into a major campaign after an incredible World Cup," Jones said in an interview with the BBC. "We aspired to play in front of large crowds, and that's exactly what we achieved today. We found a way to win, which is what winning teams do. I'm sure we'll refine our performance, but I'm extremely proud of the girls." With World Cup-winning captain Zoe Stratford absent due to pregnancy, Jones led the team for the first time. She reflected on the experience, saying, "I'll probably take some time to think about it tonight. Walking out of the tunnel was incredible, with everyone cheering and singing the anthem." Bern also recognized that the new-look team, featuring only seven players from the World Cup final, would take time to gel. "With a new combination of players and a lot of young talent, we knew it wouldn't be perfect, and we didn't expect it to be," Bern said. "There were aspects to celebrate and areas we'll definitely review. However, the atmosphere in the stadium was fantastic, and that always helps us push through to the finish line."