England's women's rugby side, known as the Red Roses, delivered a spectacular performance against Wales in the Women's Six Nations, crossing the try line ten times in a 62-24 rout. The match, held at Ashton Gate, showcased the depth of talent in the English squad and highlighted the growing competitiveness of the tournament.
From the opening whistle, England set the tone. Within the first six minutes, debutant Maddie Feaunati broke through the Welsh defence and powered her way into the 22, eventually grounding the ball close to the line.
Helena Rowland added the conversion, giving the hosts an early lead. Just moments later, Millie David, another newcomer, collected a long pass from Holly Aitchison, sprinted down the wing and scored her first international try. David’s celebration was cut short when she later failed a head‑injury assessment, but her contribution helped cement England’s early dominance.
Wales responded quickly. Scrum‑half Keira Bevan snatched a loose ball from a ruck, exploited a gap in the English line and crossed for a try, then converted her own effort to bring the score to 12‑7. The Welsh side showed resilience, but England’s relentless attack soon re‑asserted control.
Flanker Marlie Packer, who would later be named player of the match, powered over for a try, and centre Meg Jones followed with a solo run that earned her a bonus‑point try. Rowland was flawless with the conversion, while Welsh hooker Jones also managed to score from a well‑executed line‑out. By halftime, the Red Roses had built a comfortable 29‑12 lead, thanks to a fluid sequence that involved winger Claudia Moloney‑MacDonald and fly‑half Ellie Kildunne.
The second half saw England maintain their momentum. Hooker Amy Cokayne broke away from a rolling maul and touched down, with Rowland adding the two points. Wales suffered a setback when full‑back Kayleigh Powell received a yellow card for a deliberate knock‑on, reducing their defensive options.
Moloney‑MacDonald capitalised on the space, finishing a corner‑angle try that demonstrated her speed and footwork. Replacement wing Jess Breach added the eighth try for England, and Zoe Harrison, also on the bench, successfully converted.
The English side continued to pile on points with tries from Packer and Maud Muir, both converted by Harrison, pushing the total to ten. Wales managed a consolation try through lock Seren Lockwood late in the game, securing a bonus point, but the final whistle confirmed a 62‑24 victory for England. Marlie Packer, reflecting on the match in a post‑game interview with the BBC, praised her teammates and the atmosphere at Ashton Gate: "We're really pleased.
Wales gave us a tough game and have improved massively. Our young squad stepped up and I’m proud of their performance. Wearing this shirt is a massive honour, and playing in front of a sold‑out crowd is incredible. It means everything to put on a product that our fans enjoy." Wales head coach Sean Lynn also spoke to the BBC, acknowledging the character shown by his side: "I asked the girls for character today.
A year ago we might have collapsed, but they fought back with two tries and earned a bonus point. We’re disappointed to have conceded 62 points, but the Red Roses were clinical." The broader context of the 2026 Women’s Six Nations saw the tournament evolve from a three‑horse race into a head‑to‑head clash between traditional powerhouses.
In France, Les Bleues secured a 26‑7 win over Ireland at the Stade Marcel‑Michelin, demonstrating the efficiency required at test level. Ireland’s early dominance, driven by Aoife Wafer’s powerful carries, was undermined by missed opportunities, including three disallowed tries and a faltering kicking game. The loss left Ireland reflecting on what could have been a historic victory.
Meanwhile, in Italy, the Azzurre celebrated Silvia Turani’s 50th cap with a masterclass performance against Scotland, winning 41‑14 at the Stadio Sergio Lanfranchi. Italy’s high‑tempo, precision rugby left the Scottish side, hampered by the late withdrawal of captain Rachel Malcolm and multiple injuries, struggling to keep pace. Overall, England’s ten‑try display not only extended their unbeaten record in the tournament but also highlighted the growing depth and professionalism in women’s rugby across Europe.
The Red Roses’ blend of experienced internationals and emerging talent suggests they will remain a formidable force as the Six Nations progresses toward its climactic finale, where the battle for the top spot will intensify.