Emily Scarratt stars as England Women register 26-13 win over France

England Women 23 - 16 France Women

Emily Scarratt kicked 16 points as England Women made a stunning comeback to win the Women's Six Nations opening game against the defending champions France by 23-16 on Saturday.

Shannon Izar opened France's account inside five minutes which was followed by a penalty from Christelle Le Duff as the visitors took an early eight point lead.

France looked in firm control after skipper Gaelle Mignot crossed over in the 32nd minute as they ended the first half with a comfortable lead of 13-0.

However, England made a strong comeback in the second half and it was Scarratt, who scored their first point with a penalty and was followed by a cross over from Danielle Waterman and a conversion from the 27-year-old.

Scarratt continued her momentum and soon kicked three penalties in a span of 13 minutes to put England into the lead by six points.

Amy Wilson Hardy capped off a fantastic second half performance from Simon Middleton's team as she danced over the line in the closing stage and Scarratt was spot on with another conversion as England registered a seven-point win.

The win has taken England to second position in the table behind Ireland while France are placed last.