England's Red Roses, brimming with confidence following their commanding victory over Wales eight days prior, are set to face Ireland this weekend. Their historical dominance in this fixture, having won twenty of their last 22 Six Nations encounters against Ireland, underscores their formidable reputation.
Despite their strong record against Ireland, England are not downplaying the challenge at hand as they travel to the Virgin Media Park stadium in Cork against an Ireland side energized by a significant away victory against Italy, knowing they will face a determined opponent.
This clash promises to be a compelling Six Nations encounter, pitting England's formidable strength against an Ireland side eager to disrupt their Grand Slam ambitions. While history leans heavily in England's favour, Ireland's recent resurgence suggests they will be a far more competitive force.
The 2024 Six Nations match between the two sides saw a very one-sided result with England coming out on top with a relentless 88-10 win at home to Ireland. Out of the last six matches against England, Ireland have only managed to score ten points, however Ireland's improved recent form adds an intriguing layer to this matchup.
Ireland will need to be at their best defensively as England have a wealth of experience, power, and flair within their squad with the likes of Captain Zoe Aldcroft (Gloucester-Hartpury) with 60 caps, Hannah Botterman (Bristol Bears) with 53 caps, Amy Cokayne (Leicester Tigers) with a huge 81 caps and Marlie Packer (Saracens) with 109 caps dominating the forward line. They can then call on the attacking flair of Jess Breach (Saracens) 44 caps, Abby Dow (Trailfinders) 49 caps, Ellie Kildunne (Harlequins) 50 caps and the dependable and experienced stalwart Emily Scarratt (Loughborough Lightening) with 117 caps, they will be hoping to better last years score of 88 points!
Image shows England’s Ellie Killdunne running in for a try.
Head Coach John Mitchell has also included four uncapped players in his 37-player squad hoping to face Ireland. Showing the exciting mix of players and style with an embarrassment of depth and healthy competition in his team looking for a record breaking fourth successive Grand Slam.
With England’s historical dominance, and Ireland’s recent form improvement, this game is poised to be a very interesting encounter.
Previous Encounters
2024 – England 88 – 10 Ireland
2023 – Ireland 0 – 48 England
2022 – England 69 – 0 Ireland
2020 – England 27 – 0 Ireland
2019 – Ireland 7 – 51 England
2018 – England 33 – 11 Ireland
2017 – Ireland 7 – 34 England
2016 – Ireland 10-12 England
PHOTO CREDIT: Rugby Lad and Six Nations Rugby
WRITTEN BY: Amy Tuscher
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