Nine-try England crush Scotland – Women’s Rugby Six Nations – Match Report & Video

from RBS Nations:

England’s women remain firmly on track to land the Grand Slam and a fifth consecutive RBS Six Nations title after a crushing 51-0 win over Scotland.

Gary Street’s side ran in an impressive nine tries in a superb display of flowing rugby and he will be hoping for a repeat performance in the decisive clash in France.

Two tries each from Amber Penrith, Fiona Pocock and Emily Scarratt in addition to scores from Jo McGilchrist, Rebecca Essex and standout performer Heather Fisher, were more than enough to see off the hosts in Edinburgh.

Just as impressive was their defensive shutout of Scotland – their third ‘nil’ of the tournament – with Kate O’Loughlin’s try for Ireland the only points they have conceded throughout the tournament.

After defeating Ireland 22-5, Street made eight changes to his starting XV with Penrith getting a shot on the wing while Pocock made her first start full-back giving him plenty of food of thought for Friday’s showdown.

The rout began early on when the England backs took advantage of a poor Scottish kick to spin it through the hands and allow Worcester wing Penrith to touch down.

Fisher showed some nimble footwork for a flanker she twisted and turned through the Scottish defence and under the posts. Skipper Katy McLean, having missed the first conversion, added the extras.

The lead was extended after 14 minutes when 19-year-old Scarratt took advantage of a blistering break from Pocock to run in via a Penrith offload.

Lock McGilchrist’s try made it 22-0 at the half with England’s fourth try and things did not improve for the hosts after the break.

Pocock maintained her own impressive performance when a perfect running line gave her a clear run to the posts and McLean again made no mistake with the conversion.

Penrith grabbed her second in the 55th minute after a powerful scrum allowed the back line to spread it wide to the left winger who touched down in the corner.

Soon after, lock Essex burrowed over after some sustained pressure in the tight as Scotland continued to spend the game on the backfoot.

Pocock and Scarratt added salt to the Scottish wounds as they ran in two tries in the final three minutes as the England express train showed no sign of slowing.

France now await with Steet’s side having the perfect opportunity to lay down a crushing statement of intent in World Cup year.

Video from Scrumqueens:

For a full schedule of all the 2010 Six Nations action, go here. For travel packages to England for the 2010 Women’s Rugby World Cup, go here.