England score 12 tries in huge win over Scotland

Record attendance highlights historic victory

Murrayfield hosted a record-breaking crowd of 30,498 for a standalone women’s sporting event in Scotland, but the stands were filled with anticipation as England’s dominance unfolded. The Red Roses secured their 35th consecutive Test victory with a commanding 12-try display, leaving Scotland’s historic afternoon at the stadium with a sour taste.

Key moments in the match

Scotland began with vigor, but England’s relentless pace quickly shifted the momentum. Elliann Clark was held up over the line, allowing England to seize control. Ellie Kildunne, making her debut on the wing, showcased her usual flair, scoring twice in the first half. Her first try followed a powerful carry from Maddie Feaunati, while the second came after a precise miss-pass by Meg Jones. Captain Jones, already a standout performer, added her own try before the break, with Kelsey Clifford and Emma Sing contributing further scores. However, the Scottish crowd had a brief highlight when Helson Nelson’s chip over the top was neatly finished by Rhona Lloyd, who surged past defenders for a try that drew thunderous applause.

Second-half onslaught

England’s dominance continued in the second half, as they added seven more tries. Amy Cokayne crossed at the back of the maul, while replacement prop Sarah Bern scored twice from close range. Former captain Marlie Packer, Sadia Kabeya, Mia Venner, and Haineala Lutui all chipped in, reinforcing England’s pursuit of an eighth straight Six Nations title.

Reactions and implications

Despite missing several key players, England’s depth proved unstoppable. Their physicality and tactical nous overwhelmed Scotland, who struggled with errors and 52 missed tackles. Zoe Harrison’s 12 successful conversions sealed the victory, underscoring England’s consistency. Even replacements like Lutui and Venner, with just five caps combined, delivered impactful performances. The game marked a pivotal moment for women’s rugby in Scotland, where emotions ran high. A rendition of the national anthem, “Flower of Scotland,” echoed through the stadium, accompanied by a crowd’s deep connection to the occasion. Legends of the sport, such as Jen Beattie and Jen Dodds, attended to witness the event.

England’s ability to thrive under pressure has made their quest for a fifth consecutive Grand Slam seem inevitable, with France’s match in Bordeaux as the final hurdle. Scotland, though valiant, will reflect on the distance to close the gap.

Team Lineups

Scotland: Rollie, Lloyd, Wills, Smith, Campbell; Nelson, Brebner-Holden; Bartlett, Skeldon, Clarke, Wassell, Cunningham, Malcolm (capt), Stewart, Coubrough. Replacements: Martin, Swann, Poolman, Bogan, McLachlan, Darroch, Scott, McGhie.

England: Sing; Breach, Jones (capt), Rowland, Kildunne; Harrison, L Packer; Clifford, Cokayne, Muir, Burton, Ives Campio.