England find winning formula in high scoring second half against Ireland

A high scoring second 40 saw England take back control against a spirited Ireland side, with replacement Sarah Bern scoring twice to help England register a 49-5 victory and stay on course for a Guinness Women’s Six Nations Grand Slam.

It was far from straightforward for John Mitchell’s side in Cork, after going behind thanks to an Amee-Leigh Costigan try in the 24th minute, only forging ahead for the first time 12 minutes later as half-time approached with Morwenna Talling’s try.

The second half was a different story, though, as Bern, who has made headlines in this tournament off field with her TikTok dances, crashed over twice and Ellie Kildunne scored a fine individual effort in a seven-try display to help England take another step towards a fourth successive Grand Slam.

‘This Energy Never Stops’ – Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025

‘This Energy Never Stops’ – Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025

Ireland almost went in front early on but Linda Djougang was denied on the line and while the visitors dominated first-half territory, scoring opportunities were harder to fashion.

Defence was on top at Musgrave Park but the home fans were given a moment to savour when Costigan won a foot race with Abby Dow to finish off Dannah O’Brien’s perfectly weighted kick and stun England.

It looked like Ireland’s lead would stand until half-time, but with five minutes of the first period left Talling dotted down after a driving maul and Zoe Harrison added the extras to ensure it was 7-5 to England at the break.

With Mitchell’s words still ringing in the ears of the England players, Jess Breach was denied a try by TMO before Ireland’s Niamh O’Dowd was sin-binned for repeated infringements.

England did not need long to make their numerical advantage count as Harrison crossed before Megan Jones grabbed a try after unselfish play by Dow saw her pass back inside off the wing.

O’Dowd was back on at this point, but the floodgates were open and Bern used her power and pace to seal a bonus point after England recycled the ball well.

It was quickly followed by another for Bern before Kildunne produced a brilliant sixth try for England as she skipped past O’Dowd and raced away from two other Irish players to score a fine solo effort.

The final word went to Kelsey Clifford, who managed to go in under the posts late on for her first England try, and Harrison added a seventh successful conversion.