The Women’s Rugby World Cup kicked off over the weekend in Auckland and proved to be successful for our centurions. A strong England team containing Sarah Hunter and Emily Scarratt were victorious in a 84-19 blowout over Fiji. Whilst Sara Barattin’s Italy had a strong second half to win 22-10 against the USA. Other results across the tournament involved France beating South Africa 40-5, New Zealand beating Australia 41-17, Canada beating Japan 41-5 and Wales beating Six Nations rival Scotland 18-15.
England set a record in the world cup scoring 14 tries, the most in one match. After a competitive first half ending 24-14 in England’s favour, the Sarah Hunter captained side turned it on in the second scoring 10 tries. With Scarratt converting 5 during her time on the pitch. This takes the red roses to 26 matches unbeaten and puts them top of their pool with a bonus point win.
Italy also enjoyed a more fruitful second half as they went into the break leading by only 2 points over the USA. However, the Italians would score 15 in the second with their opponents only managing 5 to take a solid opening match win securing a bonus point on the way. Sara Barattin had a more reserved role in the match, only making an appearance in the 69th minute, she showed her importance with her involvement in Italy’s final try.
Both teams will be confident going into their next matches, but both teams face stronger opponents. Italy play Canada who currently top their pool, whilst England play France who look to be title contenders alongside the red roses and New Zealand.
Congratulations to our centurions for a successful opening weekend and we are wishing them the best of luck as they progress deeper into the tournament.