Rugby:Katy McLean's 18-point haul helped England to a 23-6 win and a third successive Women's Six Nations Grand Slamand seventh straight title after beating a gutsy Ireland at Esher.
Three McLean penalties had put England into the ascendency before an excellent try was followed by another from Amy Turner as England overcame a valiant Irish effort. Two penalties from Niamh Briggs had seen Ireland go into half-time level, but a rousing second-half performance from England saw them home.
Ireland began the stronger and Niamh Briggs kicked them into an early lead after Maggie Alphonsi was penalised for not rolling away. Briggs’ kicking continued to pen England back but two storming breaks from Katherine Merchant helped England take the initiative and Katy McLean twice punished some Irish infringements to push Gary Street’s side into the lead.
The impressive Alphonsi was then forced off with a leg injury and Ireland began to exert dominance at the breakdown, with some tough tackling keeping England out. Briggs immediately restored parity for Ireland with another penalty and the sides left the pitch level at 6-6.
England had amassed 138 points in the tournament prior to the game, but the Irish defensive resistance was out in full force. Ireland began the second half as they began the first and Philip Doyle’s side continued to mount pressure and a strong surge from Sophie Spence drew a high tackle as Ireland set-up camp in England’s half.
England’s first foray into the Irish half drew an offside and McLean kicked England back ahead. McLean looped around Rachael Burford from first phase ball and raced home from halfway for an excellent try which she converted.
McLean missed two chances to extend England's lead but replacement Amy Turner burrowed over from close range and McLean converted to put England 23-6 ahead.
