England demolish Italy in Women's Six Nations opener despite first-half red card for Sarah Beckett
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Published 24/03/2024 at 19:38 GMT
England saw Sarah Beckett dismissed in the first half as they began their Women's Six Nations defence on Sunday afternoon in Parma. The numerical disadvantage did not cost them, as they led by 10-0 in the first half before rattling off six more tries on their way to a 48-0 victory. England are the current champions and remain on course for their third consecutive Grand Slam.
Emily Scarratt of England is tackeld by Giulia Cavina and Francesca Sgorbini of Italy during the Guinness Women's Six Nations 2024 match between Italy and England
Image credit: Getty Images
England routed Italy 48-0 in the Women’s Six Nations in Parma despite Sarah Beckett’s red card.
The visitors did enough to score a bonus point and were able to shut out their opponents for the full 80 minutes despite their numerical disadvantage.
Beckett was initially given a yellow card for dangerous play in a ruck clear-out, but the decision was reviewed and her punishment increased.
Despite the first-half blow, England had a 10-point lead at the end of the first period after tries from Hannah Botterman and Abbie Ward.
Another six tries in the second half kept them on top, with Ellie Kildunne scoring a brace, and efforts from Lark Atkin-Davies, Helena Rowland, Mackenzie Carson and Connie Powell.
England are the current champions with back-to-back Grand Slams, and have won the tournament five times so far.
Their next match is against Wales at Ashton Gate on Saturday, and Italy will travel to Ireland for their match on Sunday.
England captain Marlie Packer told the BBC: "I am on top of the world if I am being honest with you.
"We said as a squad we wanted to take the handbrake off, but there were some soft errors in play.
"It is the first game of the tournament, we will fix up and come back stronger against Wales."
On reaching the 100-caps landmark for her country, she added: "I want to thank all my friends and family, all them making the trip makes it special to me.
"Everyone has had a part to play when I have worn this shirt."
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