The English women’s rugby team, known as the Red Roses, is looking for redemption after losing the Women’s Six Nations Grand Slam last year to France.
This time, the Roses are undefeated. With the end in sight, the girls are excited to reclaim their rightful title as Grand Slam Champions.
England emerged victorious in their most recent matchup against Italy 55-0, which marks the third time this season the women have scored over 50 points. Previously, the Roses beat Ireland (51-7) and Wales (51-12). In addition, they also defeated France 41-26.
At first, Italy was giving the Roses a run for their money but that all changed when wing Jess Breach put England on the board in the 13th minute. Lark Davies and Sarah Hunter would also score to give the team a 21-0 advantage by halftime.
Abbie Scott and Vicky Fleetwood gave the Roses nine tries in the game and Katy Daley-McLean made four conversions.
England was relentless in their fight against Italy and Sarah Bern cemented their triumph after she got the team a bonus point in the 42nd minute.
Another perk to the Roses unrivalled season? The event drew in a record-breaking crowd of 10,545 people. In fact, the game brought in more than double the previous record for a women’s international outside of the World Cup, according to ESPN.
“As the Red Roses we have the responsibility to act as role models for women and girls who are looking to get into rugby and hopefully by bringing the women’s game to Exeter and other parts of the country we can do our bit in getting more people involved,” center Lagi Tuima told CNN.
Flanker Sarah Beckett was also excited about the influx of spectators as she spoke with Sky Sports.
“As the game’s growing we’re getting more exposure and it’s great to see. We’re still getting to know each other and having this crowd supporting us, we can’t ask for more.”
The Red roses will play their final game against Scotland next Saturday. Scotland has yet to secure a win this season.
Scotland felt they were on the path to victory during their game against Wales, but after a try from Wales’ Bethan Lewis and a kick from Robyn Wilkins, the score was tied 10-10 at halftime.
Things began to look up for the team in the second half after Chloe Rollie’s try put Scotland ahead 15-10, but Siwan Lillicrap tied the game once more and Lleucu George was able to make a conversion to give Wales the win.
France is currently in third place, but only trails Italy by one point. If they defeat Ireland on Saturday, they can easily move to second place. However, if France loses, England will win the title.
Emilee Brewer
Intern