Opening Weekend Delivers Rugby Thrills

The 2025 Women's Six Nations tournament exploded into action with three compelling matches over the weekend, showcasing the growing quality and competitiveness of women's rugby.

England's Commanding Start

England 38-5 Italy The Red Roses began their title defense in ruthless fashion at York's LNER Community Stadium.

• Fast start: Newcomer Mia Venner scored after just 3 minutes
• First-half dominance: 31-0 halftime lead with tries from Scarratt, Aldcroft, and a penalty try
• Mitchell's rotation: Gave valuable minutes to emerging talents like Emma Sing
• Areas for improvement: Scoring slowed in second half (only 7 points added)

Coach Mitchell warned: "No World Cup spots are guaranteed - everyone must earn their place."

France Survives Irish Scare

France 27-15 Ireland

• Red card drama: Gabrielle Vernier sent off for high tackle (52')
• Irish fightback: Closed gap to 17-15 before France's late surge
• Key moment: Bourgeois' brilliant run setup Boulard's clinching try
• Tournament implications: Vital away win for perennial runners-up

Scotland Edges Wales

Scotland 24-21 Wales A thriller featuring:

• Early Welsh lead: Lightning start with try in 5 minutes
• TMO drama: Two Scotland tries disallowed, two red cards shown
• Heroic finish: Bonar, Orr and Bartlett tries secured victory

Memorable Moments

1. Bern Connects With Fans: England prop's post-match celebrations
2. Bourgeois' Brilliance: French center's dazzling run
3. Orr's Opportunism: Scotland wing's alert reaction try

Round 2 Preview

Key storylines to follow:

• Can France build momentum against Scotland?
• Will Wales challenge England's dominance?
• Ireland's response after narrow loss