Red Roses player ratings vs Italy as John Mitchell’s ladies began their 2024 Six Nations with a bonus-point win in Parma.
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In Parma, England secured a bonus-point victory against Italy in their Women’s Six Nations opener, despite facing adversity with Sarah Beckett’s red card.
Beckett, playing as number eight, made history as the first woman to see her yellow card upgraded to red by the TMO ‘bunker’ system due to a dangerous ruck clear-out in the first half.
Despite being down a player, England managed to establish a 10-point lead at halftime through tries from Hannah Botterman and Abbie Ward.
The Red Roses displayed dominance in the second half, scoring six tries to clinch a comfortable win.
Player of the match Ellie Kildunne’s double, along with contributions from Lark Atkin-Davies, Helena Rowland, Mackenzie Carson, and Connie Powell, helped England recover from an under-par opening 40.
Scroll down for Red Roses player ratings vs Italy.
Main image credit: Six Nations Rugby
Italy: 0
- Tries:
- Cons:
- Pens
England: 48
- Tries: Hannah Botterman (30′), Abbie Ward (35′), Marlie Packer (44′), Ellie Kildunne (49′, 70′), Helena Rowland (53′), Mackenzie Carson (60′), Connie Powell (81′)
- Cons: Zoe Harrison (50′, 54′, 61′), Holly Aitchison (82′)
- Pens
Red Roses stats: (via England Rugby)
- Carries: Ellie Kildunne – 14
- Metres: Ellie Kildunne – 170
- Offloads: Ellie Kildunne – 4
- Defenders beaten: Helena Rowland – 7
- Tackles: Zoe Aldcroft – 15
- Tackles missed: Abby Dow – 3
- Turnovers: Kelsey Clifford – 2
Red Roses player ratings vs Italy:
15 Ellie Kildunne – 9
14 Abby Dow – 6
13 Helena Rowland – 7
12 Emily Scarratt – 7
11 Jess Breach – 6
10 Zoe Harrison – 7
9 Lucy Packer – 7.5
1 Hannah Botterman – 8
2 Lark Atkin-Davies – 7.5
3 Kelsey Clifford – 7.5
4 Zoe Aldcroft – 7.5
5 Abbie Ward – 8.5
6 Sadia Kabeya – 7
7 Marlie Packer (Captain) – 8
8 Sarah Beckett – 2
REPLACEMENTS
16 Connie Powell – 6
17 Mackenzie Carson – 7
18 Maud Muir – 6
19 Maddie Feaunati – 6.5
20 Alex Matthews – 6
21 Natasha Hunt – 6
22 Holly Aitchison – 8
23 Megan Jones – 6
“Role models” – Five inspiring Red Roses you need to follow on Instagram
Before the 2024 Women’s Six Nations kicks off, let’s spotlight five standout Red Roses players worth following on Instagram. From motivating moms to fitness enthusiasts, these stars are sure to inspire.
#1. ABBIE WARD
Abbie’s introduction to rugby began with touch at the age of 10, igniting a passion that led her through various age groups. Her talent shone early as she contributed to the England squad’s triumph at the U20 Nations Cup in 2011. Venturing abroad, she spent the summer of 2014 showcasing her skills in Canada with the Strathcona Druids.
Notably, Abbie made history as the first former Sedbergh School girl to represent England in a senior national sporting team. Her debut was marked with flair as she scored a try in her inaugural start against Italy in 2015. This was just the beginning of her impressive journey.
A pivotal figure in England’s 2017 World Cup squad, Abbie started in the final against New Zealand, showcasing her prowess on the international stage. Her consistency was evident as she participated in all five of England’s games at the 2018 Six Nations as part of the Bristol Bears second row.
Recognition followed with a full-time contract in 2019, culminating in a triumphant Six Nations Grand Slam victory later that year. Leading by example, she captained the Super Series squad in June 2019, a testament to her leadership qualities and skill.
Despite challenges, including maternity leave, Abbie’s dedication never wavered. She is now set to feature prominently in the 2024 Six Nations, adding to her impressive rugby legacy.