England dominate Wales 70-6 in Women's Rugby League World Cup

England delivered a commanding performance in their Women's Rugby League World Cup opener, defeating Wales 70-6 in Perth ^[1]. The match began with a surprise when Wales scored through Paige Travis, their first ever World Cup try, capitalising on early English errors. But that moment of hope was short-lived as England quickly regained control, scoring seven tries before half-time to lead 40-6.

Debutant Connie Boyd and wing Anna Davies both scored hat-tricks, while Izzy Rowe added two tries and kicked nine conversions for a record-equalling 26 points in a single match ^[1]. Rowe’s composure and linking play with Jasmin Strange and Georgia Roche were pivotal, with her performance drawing widespread praise.

Amelia Brown’s 109-metre sprint for a try—after a Welsh chipped kick bounced kindly behind their own line—was among the longest-distance tries ever recorded in women’s rugby league and effectively demoralised Wales ^[1]. The game’s momentum never wavered, with England adding three more tries in the final five minutes.

Wales, who had previously lost to England by a combined 144-0 in two meetings, showed resilience in the opening 10 minutes, with captain Bethan Dainton aiming to stay competitive despite limited international experience ^[1]. However, by the half-hour mark, they appeared exhausted compared to England’s relentless pace.

Despite the heavy defeat, head coach Tom Brindle highlighted the value of World Cup exposure for a young squad ^[1]. Wales now face Samoa and reigning champions Australia in Pool A, with Samoa seen as their best chance for a result.

England, aiming for their first World Cup final, now turn their focus to their next match, building on a performance that has put women’s rugby league on notice ^[1]. The story was first reported by BBC News.