Ellie Kildunne delivered a stunning nine-minute hat-trick on her 50th cap as England overwhelmed Wales with an 11-try triumph. The full-back, who debuted in 2017, has now amassed 39 international tries at just 25 years old, with plenty more to come. Her influence grew in the second half as she effortlessly sliced through the Welsh defense.
Kildunne’s contributions were complemented by outstanding performances from teammates Maddie Feaunati and Meg Jones. For Jones, the occasion carried extra emotional weight, as she was making her first England appearance since losing both parents. She marked the moment with a brilliant solo try, pointing skyward in tribute.
England’s dominance over Wales in the Women’s Six Nations continued, extending their winning streak in the competition to 31 matches. Although their performance was not flawless, particularly with handling errors in the first half, they still proved far too strong. Their ability to score freely remains a daunting challenge for any opponent.
Despite the heavy defeat, Wales set a new attendance record for a women’s sporting event in the country, with 21,186 fans in attendance. The closed roof and pre-match spectacle of lights and fire created a charged atmosphere, further fueling the intensity of the encounter.
Wales started with promise, with Jaz Joyce-Butchers’ speed making an early impact. A knock-on by Zoe Harrison gave the hosts an opportunity, which Jenni Scoble capitalized on to score the opening try. However, England quickly responded, with Feaunati powering over before Jones’ spectacular long-range effort put them in control. Further tries from Sarah Bern and Feaunati cemented their lead before halftime.
At the start of the second half, Lisa Neumann’s break briefly ignited Welsh hopes, but they failed to capitalize, and England ruthlessly made them pay. Kildunne took center stage, crossing three times in quick succession and celebrating with her signature rodeo gesture.
Wales managed a late consolation try through Kate Williams, but England’s relentless attack continued. Harrison’s pinpoint kick set up Abby Dow, who marked her return from injury with a try. Sevens specialist Abi Burton, making her England debut from the bench, also scored twice. Burton’s journey to international rugby has been remarkable, having been placed in an induced coma in 2022 due to a rare brain illness. Reflecting on her achievement, she expressed gratitude for sharing the moment with her family.
Although Wales avoided their heaviest-ever defeat, which remains an 81-0 loss in 2005, England’s supremacy remains unchallenged. Their latest victory marks their 22nd consecutive win in all competitions, reinforcing their dominance in the sport. On this evidence, stopping this England side appears a near-impossible task.
