The inaugural Women’s Six Nations Finals Day delivered the goods, with three hard-fought contests featuring a string of impressive individual displays.
This week’s Player of the Round nominees feature two influential Red Roses stars after England wrapped up their third consecutive Championship crown and a pair of fly-halves who played key roles in vital victories for their respective countries.
As ever, the choice is yours – and if you need a reminder of how this week’s contenders fared, here you have it…
Stacey Flood (Ireland)
One of several new faces to have made her mark for Ireland in this Championship, Stacey Flood seized her opportunity with both hands on her first international 15s start.
Flood controlled the tempo for the hosts in Dublin and looked creative throughout, providing the service for a talented backline to come into their own and secure third place with a 25-5 win over Italy.
The 24-year-old fly-half earned the Player of the Match prize for her efforts, which included a penalty and a conversion, and Ireland fans will hope to see plenty more of Flood in the No.10 jersey in the years to come.
Zoe Aldcroft (England)
England knew their back row would have to rise to the challenge if they were to come out on top against France – and the fact two of the three are nominated for Player of the Round tells its own story.
Aldcroft was relentless against Les Bleues, making more tackles (15) than any other Red Roses player and setting off on 14 carries to boot.
Whether positioned at lock or flanker, the 24-year-old has delivered consistent displays throughout England’s latest successful Championship bid and this Player of the Match display arguably saw her save her best until last.
Poppy Cleall (England)
Cleall’s selection at No.8 ahead of captain Sarah Hunter was a show of faith in the 28-year-old and this performance more than repaid it.
The influential back-rower scored the only try of the final against France, which came at a pivotal time in the game just before half-time, and her all-round performance was excellent once again.
Cleall made 44 metres from 12 carries, breaking three tackles, and also carried out her defensive duties diligently as England held firm in the second half.
Helen Nelson (Scotland)
Playing their final match of a tournament which had begun with back-to-back defeats, Scotland needed cool heads.
Captain Helen Nelson certainly provided one with a composed display which helped her side overcome Wales 27-20 at Scotstoun.
Creative with her kicking throughout and contributing useful points off the tee, Nelson pulled the strings as the home side ended their campaign on a high in Glasgow and picked up the Player of the Match award.
