Sarah Hunter shines as defending champions England sail past Italy

Captain Sarah Hunter scored three tries as defending champions England defeated Italy 42-7 in their Women's Six Nations opener in Reggio Emilia.

After the teams went in at half-time with the score level at 7-7, the Italians having replied to Sarah Bern's early try through a Valentina Ruzza effort, England powered to a bonus-point victory, crossing six more times.

As well as Hunter's hat-trick, Poppy Cleall, Abigail Dow and Ellie Kildunne also crossed the whitewash. Katy Daley-Mclean, who converted two of the seven tries, had put England back in front with a penalty.

England's second match of the tournament will see them host Wales next Saturday.

FRANCE 24-0 IRELAND

Ireland suffered a heavy defeat in their Women's Six Nations opener as France ran out 24-0 winners at Stade Ernest Wallon.

Jessy Tremouliere's early penalty came back off the posts for the home side but the full-back soon combined well with Pauline Bourdon to set winger Cyrielle Banet up for the opening try after just six minutes.

Jade Le Pesq then claimed the first of her two tries after 25 minutes and Tremouliere kicked the conversion before crossing for a try of her own to secure a 17-0 lead at half-time.

Ireland threatened to get on the scoreboard in the closing stages but found France's defence in resolute form and Le Pesq completed the bonus-point win in the closing minutes.

PA