ENGLAND WOMEN TOO TOUGH FOR WALES

The England women's rugby team powered through Wales 53-3 to record their fourth win of the 2004 Six Nations Championship in blustery conditions at The Stoop Memorial Ground this afternoon.

A crowd in excess of 1200 people witnessed England move a step closer to retaining the championship, but they will have to get past France at home next weekend.

The game started well with a try by Nicki Jupp within the first two minutes, which was converted by Karen Andrew. Andrew scored her first international try at the end of the first half and scored 13 points in total."

The fly half commented: "That was my first try for England and I felt I kicked alright, but the wind played a major factor in the game. Wales realised they had the wind with them and attacked in the second half, but we defended very well. We really wanted to come out and show the crowd how good we are."

Wales' young side struggled against the experienced England, who now have their minds focused on the game against the French next week.

Head Coach Geoff Richards commented: "I was pleased with the performance despite the disruption during the week with injuries to Maxine Edwards and Claire Frost, my two first choice captains. The team adjusted well to the windy conditions. The new players stood up well and coped under the pressure. Next weekend will be a winner takes all game, and we go there very focussed remembering what happened there two years ago when we lost the championship in France."

Georgia Stevens picked up her 50th cap today and there were new caps for Vanessa Gray and Catherine Spencer, who had a dream start to her England international career with a try in the 82nd minute.