New Zealand, Ireland, France off to winning start in Women's World Cup
Kris Thomas touched down twice for the USA against Italy
©PA
The opening day of Women's World Cup at UCD Bowl in Dublin on Wednesday saw Canada, England and France top the respective pools.
England's Kay Wilson scored a total of four tries as the defending champions over powered their opponents Spain on the opening with a total of 10 touchdowns as they completed a 56-5 win to top Pool B while USA riding on a double from Kris Thomas were too strong for Italy, who succumbed to a 24-12 defeat. USA's win saw them occupy the second position in the table.
The biggest win of the opening day came from Canada, who blanked Hong Kong with a 98-0 margin to claim top position in Pool A. Magali Harvey scored five tries for them while skipper Kelly Russell crossed over three times as they started their campaign with a lot of confidence.
An eight try performance from Black Ferns, saw them defeat Wales by 44-12 with full-back Selica Winiata scoring a hat-trick and wing Renee Wickliffe ran in two. They now take the second position in Pool A behind Canada.
The closest game of the tournament, though, was between Ireland and Australia which saw the hosts register a thrilling 19-17 win. Ireland, who had a slender 7-5 lead at half time lost control when Shannon Parry crossed for Australia but tries from replacements Ciara Griffin and Sophie Spence proved enough as they overcame a late try from Hilisha Samoa to get them off to winning start.
The top position in Pool C, though, belonged to France as they completed a 72-14 win over Japan riding on a hat-trick from Caroline Ladagnous.
Results of Day One:
England 56-5 Spain
New Zealand 44-12 Wales
USA 24-12 Italy
Canada 98-0 Hong Kong
Ireland 19-17 Australia
France 72-14 Japan
