Defending champions England got off to a flying start in the TikTok Women’s Six Nations while Wales came from behind to beat Ireland in Dublin.
The Red Roses have won a hat-trick of titles and powered to a 57-5 win over Scotland in Edinburgh in the opening game of the 2022 Championship.
That was followed by Wales coming from 19-10 down to see off Ireland 27-19 in Dublin for maximum points from their Round 1 clash.
PACKER HAT-TRICK IN STRONG ENGLAND START
Marlie Packer grabbed a hat-trick as England ran in nine tries in all at the Dam Health Stadium.
For her 80th cap, Packer got the ball rolling early on, with Poppy Cleall helping England into a 14-0 lead before Chloe Rollie crossed for Scotland.
Further scores from wingers Heather Cowell and Abby Dow, the latter a stunning solo effort, allowed England to stretch their lead, with Packer getting her second and Leanne Infante crossing for number six for a 38-5 half-time lead.
Scotland had plenty of possession in the second half but just could not find a way through the England defence.
By contrast, England were more clinical as Holly Aitchison and Connie Powell also scored before Packer completed her hat-trick.
ROSE AT THE DOUBLE IN WALES COMEBACK
Two tries from replacement Donna Rose helped Wales come from behind to see off Ireland at the RDS Arena.
A year after Ireland had won 45-0 in Wales, this was a complete turnaround as Wales came away with five points, thanks in large part to Rose’s second-half double.
Ireland went in 14-5 up at the break thanks to tries from Amee-Leigh Murphy Crowe and Linda Djougang, Carys Phillips getting over for Wales.
Jaz Joyce crossed for Wales’ second, but when Stacey Flood made it 19-10, Ireland looked to be in control.
Instead, Wales roared back with Rose crossing twice to give them the lead for the first time in the last ten minutes.
And they finished it off in style with Hannah Jones going over for their fifth try to seal the win.
