England secured a commanding 61-21 victory over the United States in their WXV 1 opener in Vancouver, scoring an impressive nine tries. The world No 1 team, known as the Red Roses, initially struggled to find their rhythm at BC Place Stadium but managed to score four tries in the first half, with full-back Ellie Kildunne contributing two.
The United States showed resilience, with captain Kate Zackary scoring their third try during the second half. However, England closed out the match strongly, with winger Bo Westcombe-Evans marking her debut with a try and Zoe Harrison kicking 16 points. England's hooker Lark Atkin-Davies made an early impact, powering over following a line-out in the 11th minute and soon crossing again as Kildunne drove forward from inside her own half to touch down under the posts.
The Americans were briefly rewarded for their positive play when Alev Kelter collected her own kick and darted clear. England regained control with two quick tries before halftime through Georgia Brock and captain Alex Matthews. USA's Kelter scored her second try after the interval, but England responded swiftly through Westcombe-Evans. The US rallied again with a try from skipper Zackary, but England's Morwenna Talling, Jess Breach, Kildunne, and substitute Ella Wyrwas all scored to secure the win.
