Wales Women failed to record a first away win over England as the world champions gained revenge for last season’s Six Nations defeat.
Despite a brave challenge, Wales were edged out 20-13 at the Twickenham Stoop – thanks to two tries from Ceri Large – and are now chasing runners-up spot in the championship.
But with France enjoying a points difference advantage of 83, it would require a massive Wales win over Italy and a French defeat to Grand Slam-chasing England for Wales to claim second place in the tournament.
England led 14-3 at the break with Large charging over for two converted tries with Wales’ only response a Robyn Wilkins penalty.
England dominated the first half and only dogged defence by Wales ensured they remained in touch at the break.
Wales got back in to the match in the second half when Wilkins pounced on a loose ball over the England try-line. She soon followed with a second touchdown when she intercepted a loose pass and ran 35m to score unopposed.
Amber Reed eased England nerves with a penalty with 15 minutes remaining. The home side knocked at Wales’ door but on three separate occasions determined defence held them at bay over the try-line with scrum half Keira Bevan in particular defending as if her life depended on it.
England’s first half dominance pave the way to victory with Large opening the scoring when she charged through Alisha Butchers to put her side 5-0 ahead. Reed converted.
Reed turned provider after 28 minutes. Her off-load to Large sent the powerful centre over to complete her double.
Wales proved a different proposition in the second spell with captain Rachel Taylor leading from the front with good support from Shona Powell-Hughes.
Despite Wilkins’ intervention England managed to hold on with a last-minute penalty by Reed putting the icing on the cake for her side.
