England's women's rugby side, known as the Red Roses, delivered a spectacular performance against Wales at Ashton Gate, crossing the try line ten times in a 62-24 win that underscored their dominance in the 2026 Women’s Six Nations. The match opened with an early burst of energy; within the first six minutes, debutant Maddie Feaunati broke through the Welsh defence and grounded the ball close to the line, giving England an immediate lead that was promptly converted by Helena Rowland.
Just moments later, another newcomer, Millie David, collected a long pass from Holly Aitchison, sprinted the length of the field and scored, although her day was cut short after she failed a head‑injury assessment. Wales responded with resilience.
Scrum‑half Keira Bevan snatched a quick ball from the base of a ruck, darted through a gap and, showing impressive composure, crossed the line herself, then added the conversion to bring the score to 12‑7. Despite this early fightback, England’s flanker Marlie Packer powered over the line, and centre Meg Jones followed with a dazzling solo effort that secured a bonus‑point try, once again converted by Rowland. Wales managed a further try when hooker Jones finished a well‑executed line‑out move, but the Red Roses had already built a comfortable cushion.
The first half ended with England leading 29‑12 after a fluid attacking sequence that saw Jones start the move, link with winger Claudia Moloney‑MacDonald, and finish with a pinpoint pass to Ellie Kildunne, who completed the try. The scoreboard reflected England’s relentless pressure and their ability to convert opportunities into points, a pattern that would continue after the break. In the second half, England’s hooker Amy Cokayne broke away from a rolling maul and grounded the ball, with Rowland adding the conversion.
Shortly thereafter, Wales suffered a setback when full‑back Kayleigh Powell received a yellow card for a deliberate knock‑on, reducing their defensive options. Italy’s Moloney‑MacDonald, now fully in her stride, slotted a try in the corner, while replacement Zoe Harrison successfully converted both that and Jess Breach’s eighth try for England. The momentum was unmistakable; England’s bench players, including Harrison, added fresh pace and precision, ensuring the gap widened. Further tries came from Packer and Maud Muir, each conversion again taken by Harrison, pushing the English total to ten.
Wales managed a consolation try through lock Seren Lockwood, which, while valuable for the bonus point, could not alter the outcome. The final whistle confirmed a 62‑24 triumph, cementing England’s unbeaten record and securing a third straight win in the tournament. Marlie Packer was named player of the match, and in her interview with the BBC she praised her teammates and the atmosphere: "Wales gave us a tough game and have improved a lot. Our young squad stepped up and I’m proud of the performance.
Wearing this shirt is an honour, and playing in front of a full Ashton Gate crowd is incredible. Seeing stadiums sell out means everything to us – we want to give the fans a show they’ll remember. Being part of the Red Roses creates a great environment that helps us produce this kind of rugby on the pitch." Wales head coach Sean Lynn also reflected on the result, noting 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 concede 62 points, but England were clinical and deserved the win." Beyond the England‑Wales clash, the 2026 Women’s Six Nations continued to deliver drama.
In the Stade Marcel‑Michelin, France faced Ireland in a match that shifted the championship narrative from a three‑horse race to a head‑to‑head battle between the traditional powerhouses. France emerged victorious 26‑7, demonstrating the efficiency that defines test rugby. Ireland displayed flashes of brilliance, especially during a period of sustained pressure led by Aoife Wafer, but missed opportunities—including three disallowed tries and a faltering kicking game—cost them dearly.
The defeat left Ireland to contemplate how a tighter defence and more disciplined execution could have altered the result. Further south, at the Stadio Sergio Lanfranchi, Italy celebrated Silvia Turani’s 50th cap by delivering a masterclass in high‑tempo, clinical rugby, dismantling Scotland 41‑14. The Azzurre’s precision and ambition were evident from the first whistle, leaving the Scots struggling to keep pace. Scotland’s campaign was hampered by the late withdrawal of captain Rachel Malcolm and a spate of injuries, highlighting the challenges of maintaining competitiveness when key personnel are unavailable.
Overall, the Women’s Six Nations 2026 continues to showcase the growing depth and excitement of women’s rugby across Europe. England’s ten‑try demolition of Wales not only reinforces their status as tournament favourites but also highlights the emergence of new talent ready to make an impact on the international stage.
As the competition progresses, fans can anticipate further high‑scoring encounters, tactical battles, and the ongoing evolution of a sport that is rapidly gaining both respect and a larger following worldwide.