England beat USA with nine-try victory in WXV1 opener

United States 21-61 England, Canada

England’s Red Roses began their WXV1 campaign with an emphatic 61-21 victory over the USA in Vancouver on Sunday, showcasing their dominance with nine tries scored by eight different players.

The victory set a strong tone for their title defence as they cruised past their American counterparts.

Strong Start for England with Early Tries

The scoring spree was initiated by hooker Lark Atkin-Davies, who went over the line following a line-out in the 11th minute. England’s Ellie Kildunne also made her mark, driving forward from inside her own half to cross under the posts. The USA managed a brief response when Alev Kelter collected her own kick to score, reducing the deficit.

However, England quickly regained momentum, scoring two tries within five minutes before halftime through Georgia Brock and Alex Matthews. The halftime score solidified their command over the match.

England’s Attack Dominates Despite USA Fightback

Despite a second-half effort from the USA with Kelter and skipper Zackary both crossing the line, England’s relentless attack continued. Bo Westcombe-Evans responded immediately, followed by flanker Morwenna Talling’s try, which marked England’s sixth of the game.

Jess Breach, Kildunne, and replacement Ella Wyrwas added to the tally, sealing the nine-try win. Zoe Harrison also contributed with 16 points to secure the comprehensive victory for the Red Roses, giving them a perfect start to their WXV1 campaign.

Team line up:

United States: Mataitoga; Emba, Henrich, Kelter, Thomas; Hawkins, Tukuafu; Rogers, Treder, Jacoby, Jarrell, Taufoou, Brody, Zackary (capt), Johnson.

Reserves: Stathopoulos, Benson, Sagapolu, Allen, Ehrecke, Pyrz, Fa'avesi, Feury.

England: Kildunne; Westcombe-Evans, Scarratt, Murray, Breach; Harrison, Packer; Carson, Atkin-Davies, Bern, Galligan, Ward, Talling, Brock, Matthews (capt).

Reserves: Cokayne, Clifford, Muir, Aldcroft, Feaunati, Wyrwas, Aitchison, Rowland.