England start WXV1 defence with win over USA

WXV - United States v England

United States (7) 21

Tries: Kelter 2, Zackary Cons: Hawkins 3

England (28) 61

Tries: Atkin-Davies, Kildunne 2, Brock, Matthews, Westcombe-Evans, Talling, Breach, Wyrwas Cons: Harrison 8

England wing Bo Westcombe-Evans scored on her debut as England started their WXV1 defence with a nine-try victory over the United States in Canada.

Despite a slow start, the Red Roses still managed four first-half tries, including a sensational solo effort from full-back Ellie Kildunne, who scored twice.

Hooker Lark Atkin-Davies opened the scoring before Kildunne's wonder try, which was cancelled out by Alev Kelter's own individual score.

On her first Red Roses start, flanker Georgia Brock grabbed the Red Roses' third try, with Alex Matthews, in her first game as England captain, scoring the fourth.

At the start of the second half, Kelter got her second, but Westcombe-Evans' sharp finish in the corner put breathing space between the sides.

The United States refused to go away as captain Kate Zackary went over for her side's third try.

But John Mitchell's side finished strongly through tries from Morwenna Talling, Jess Breach, Kildunne and replacement Ella Wyrwas.

More to follow.

United States: Mataitoga; Emba, Henrich, Kelter, Thomas; Hawkins, Tukuafu; Rogers, Treder, Jacoby, Jarrell, Taufoou, Brody, Zackary (capt), Johnson.

Replacements: Stathopoulos, Benson, Sagapolu, Allen, Ehrecke, Pyrz, Fa'avesi, Feury.

England: Kildunne; Westcombe-Evans, Scarratt, Murray, Breach; Harrison, Packer; Carson, Atkin-Davies, Bern, Galligan, Ward, Talling, Brock, Matthews (capt).

Replacements: Cokayne, Clifford, Muir, Aldcroft, Feaunati, Wyrwas, Aitchison, Rowland.

Referee: Aurelie Groizeleau (Fra)