Il Nuovo Postiglione - England survive Ireland scare in Women's Six Nations

Fly-half Zoe Harrison scored 17 points including a second-half try as the visitors easily recovered from conceding a 24th-minute score from Ireland winger Amee-Leigh Costigan in Cork.

England, hosts and favourites for this year's Rugby World Cup, moved back to the top of the table above France after they powered past Wales 42-12 earlier in the day.

With two rounds to play, it is likely the Six Nations title will come down to the last game of the tournament between England and France at Twickenham on April 26.

Ireland remain third in the standings before fourth-placed Scotland host Italy on Sunday.

Costigan, who played sevens at last year's Olympic Games, handed the home side the perfect start with a superb finish from a Dannah O'Brien chip.

But by the break they trailed 7-5 after lock Morwenna Talling responded for the visitors, ending Ireland's early resistance.

England were a different side after half-time, crossing six times including a well-taken effort from a show-and-go by Harrison.

Earlier, winger Emilie Boulard scored twice in 11 minutes in France's win over Wales.

Hooker Manon Bigot, captain Manae Feleu and flanker Lea Champon also crossed and France were awarded a penalty try in Brive.

Wales flanker Kate Williams and lock Gwen Crabb scored tries for Sean Lynn's side, still looking for their first win of the campaign after losses to Scotland and England.

S.Maiolo--INP