Marlie Packer delivered a sensational four-try performance as the England women’s national rugby union team defeated Italy women’s national rugby union team 61-33 in the Women’s Six Nations Championship to continue their march towards another Grand Slam.
The experienced England flanker produced a dominant display in Parma as the Red Roses extended their remarkable winning streak and set up a blockbuster championship decider against France.
England started aggressively and quickly overwhelmed Italy with their powerful forward play, clinical finishing and relentless attacking pressure. Packer crossed early and never looked back, repeatedly punishing Italy’s defence with intelligent support lines and close-range power.
Despite England’s dominance, Italy refused to back down and produced one of their most spirited attacking performances against the Red Roses in recent years. The hosts scored five tries, their highest-ever points tally against England, and earned a valuable bonus point in front of an enthusiastic home crowd.
Italy’s fightback included tries from Vittoria Vecchini, Alissa Ranuccini and Francesca Sgorbini, who impressed throughout the contest with her physical carrying and defensive work.
England, however, always looked in control offensively. Zoe Harrison controlled the game expertly with her tactical kicking and near-perfect conversions, while Amy Cokayne, Mia Venner and Helena Rowland also crossed for tries during another ruthless attacking display.
The match also carried emotional moments for England as Christiana Balogun made her long-awaited debut after overcoming blood cancer earlier in her career.
England coach John Mitchell will still have defensive concerns after conceding 33 points, especially with France waiting in the final round. But offensively, the Red Roses once again demonstrated why they remain the dominant force in women’s rugby.
The victory keeps England on course for an eighth consecutive Women’s Six Nations title and another Grand Slam as anticipation builds for their decisive clash with France.
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