England’s Dominance Continues in Women’s Six Nations Clash
The latest installment of one of rugby’s premier rivalries underscored the significant gap between the elite and the rest in the Women’s Six Nations tournament. Three years after Wales matched England’s investment in a professional program, a vast chasm remains between the two sides, as the class of the Red Roses proved far too swift, sturdy, and skilled.
If Wales’ scrappy opening-round victory in Italy was a mixed bag, their performance against the reigning champions in Bristol was more akin to the dominant England teams that have long ruled this championship. Varied and venomous, the visitors overwhelmed their Welsh counterparts, despite the hosts’ promising start.
“We want to play with tempo and put an exciting brand of rugby on the pitch,” said England captain Marlie Packer after the match. “The set piece was phenomenal, and our lineout worked brilliantly in attack and defense, giving us front-foot ball to play with.”
The intent was evident from the outset, as Abby Dow and Maud Muir crossed the line to establish an early English advantage. The lightning pace of the visitors, complemented by the incisive distribution of fly-half Meg Jones, caused Wales constant problems, with Zoe Aldcroft, Lark Atkin-Davies, and Ellie Kildunne adding further tries before the break.
While Wales demonstrated improved resilience in the second half, England’s relentless pressure proved too much to overcome. Keira Bevan’s late try for the hosts provided temporary respite, but Kildunne’s second score and a powerful finish from Rosie Galligan ensured the Red Roses secured a dominant victory.
The result leaves Wales with tough questions to address, as their fundamental skills and execution let them down, allowing England to exploit the spaces in the wide channels. As the Red Roses march on, the challenge remains for the chasing pack to bridge the significant gap in quality.
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