England can claim Women’s Six Nations Grand Slam

With four wins out of four, England have won the Women’s Six Nations. They will now go for the Grand Slam against Italy on Sunday 1 November.

Scotland thwart France’s title chances

Round Four of the Women’s Six Nations was completed over the weekend, and without even playing, England have claimed the title.  Way back in early March, England thrashed winless Wales 66-7, meaning France had to win to remain in contention. Even then, England’s three try bonus points gave them a comfortable cushion going to the final round.

As in the Men’s Six Nations, Scotland have derailed France’s hopes. Whilst it is still possible the men can win the title, France Women’s draw with Scotland has ended their chances of catching England.

But it had all started so well for Les Bleues. An early try from Safi N’Diaye put them in control and a penalty from each side left the score 8-3 to France at the break. Shortly after half time Agathe Sochat went over for a second French try but again the conversion was missed.

Then came the vital moment; replacement second row Lenaig Corson was injured and France had to play the last 20 minutes a player down. This gave Scotland a route back into the match which they eventually took.

Helen Nelson kicked a second penalty in the 63rd minute, and was then the hero when she converted Rachel Shankland’s try to level the scores. Scotland, who have still only played three games in this championship, have Wales and Italy to play, and can look to consolidate fourth place in the Championship.

Ireland 21- Italy 7

The other game of the weekend saw Ireland claim their third home win of the campaign. Two quickfire tries before half time from forwards Lindsey Peat and Claire Molloy set them up for the win, after Italy had scored first. A 14-7 half-time scoreline didn’t change until two minutes from time, when the Irish forced a penalty try.

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The Azzurre, will be more confident than their male compatriots of upsetting England in Round Five. The Italian Women have only lost three of their last ten Six Nations games and will want to ensure Scotland or Wales can’t overtake them in the table.

England can claim Women’s Six Nations Grand Slam

If England can do the job in Italy they will claim their second consecutive Grand Slam, and their third in four years. They have won their last three Six Nations matches emphatically, but of course, these were seven months ago.

So perhaps they will have a slight disadvantage compared to Italy who have played post-restart. But their record suggests they should be able to get the win that would complete the Grand Slam.

Will England complete the Women’s Six Nations Grand Slam against Italy? Let us know on LWOS boards and on Twitter.

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