Marlie Packer's Four-Try Masterclass Keeps England's Grand Slam Dream Alive

Packer Shines as Red Roses Demolish Italy in Parma

England's seasoned flanker Marlie Packer put in a commanding display in Parma, crossing the try line four times to help the Red Roses dismantle Italy and keep their pursuit of an eighth successive Women's Six Nations title very much alive.

The emphatic victory, which also stretched England's extraordinary unbeaten run to 37 consecutive matches, sets the stage for what promises to be a thrilling Grand Slam showdown next Sunday at the 42,115-capacity Stade Atlantique in Bordeaux — provided France secured their own win over Scotland in Edinburgh later that same day.

Explosive Start Lays the Foundation

England wasted no time asserting their dominance, racing to a try bonus point within the opening 15 minutes. Mia Venner applied the finishing touch to seal that milestone, as the visitors made their intentions clear from the very first whistle.

Packer, 36, was instrumental throughout — bagging two tries in each half — while hooker Amy Cokayne also crossed twice and playmaker Helena Rowland added another to the tally. A clever kick through from fly-half Zoe Harrison got the ball rolling for Packer, who had already impressed with a two-try outing against Wales in Bristol the previous round.

Italy Fight Back With Bonus Point of Their Own

Despite England's overwhelming control, Italy refused to simply roll over. The hosts secured their own try bonus point through scores from Vittoria Vecchini, Alissa Ranuccini, a penalty try, and Francesca Sgorbini — whose second effort late in the game pushed Le Azzurre beyond 30 points.

England's defensive vulnerabilities remained a concern for head coach John Mitchell. The concession of 21 first-half points drew comparisons to Wales, who had recently posted their highest-ever score against England, and Mitchell will undoubtedly be looking to tighten things up ahead of the Bordeaux decider.

Disruption Off the Pitch, Dominance On It

England's preparations were far from smooth. Number eight Maddie Feaunati withdrew during the pre-match warm-up, forcing a last-minute reshuffle in the pack. Abi Burton shifted to number eight, while 19-year-old lock Haineala Lutui was promoted straight into the starting lineup.

Despite the disruption, England's set-piece remained a formidable weapon and a consistent source of attacking momentum. Burton herself was rewarded for a strong display with a well-deserved try in the second half.

Packer's Legacy Grows With Every Game

With this four-try haul, Packer now sits just two tries behind Sue Day's all-time England try-scoring record — a remarkable achievement for a player who missed out on selection for the knockout stages of the recent World Cup, which England won in September.

The 115-cap veteran, who captained England to back-to-back Grand Slams in 2023 and 2024, is proving that she still has plenty to offer at the highest level. Her blistering form will make it very difficult for Mitchell to overlook her for the high-stakes clash in Bordeaux.

Grand Slam Decider Awaits in Bordeaux

England's remarkable consistency this campaign is all the more impressive given the lengthy injury list and absences due to pregnancy that have depleted their squad. Yet the Red Roses continue to find ways to win — and win convincingly.

France remain the only side to truly test England in recent memory, pushing them to within a single point in last year's Grand Slam decider at Allianz Stadium, scoring 42 points in a narrow defeat. With that rivalry in mind, England will enter Bordeaux as heavy favourites, but Les Bleues will certainly not be written off.

One thing is certain — women's rugby's biggest occasion of the season is set to deliver a spectacular finale.