POPPY Cleall helped England’s Red Roses comfortably defeat Scotland in the opening game of the Six Nations in Edinburgh.

The former Ellingham & Ringwood player crossed the line for England’s second try as the visitors recorded a total of nine tries to open their account in this year’s competition in style.

The 29-year-old won the Player of the Championship award last year and was also England’s Player of the Year in 2021 and has become an integral part of the Red Roses setup.

Her twin sister Bryony was used as a replacement as England beat the Scots 57-5 at the DAM Health Stadium.

Saracens’ Cleall crossed the line for England's second try as the Alderholt-raised forward continued her fine form for Simon Middleton’s side.

Marlie Packer grabbed herself a hat-trick to win player of the match with Abby Dow, Leanne Infante, Holly Aitchison and Connie Powell also crossing the whitewash for the visitors.

Emily Scarratt converted five of the tries as she continued her recovery from a broken leg with replacement Helena Rowland also converting from Powell’s try.

Chloe Rollie’s first half try ended up being a mere consolation for Scotland as England made it 19 wins on the bounce as they hunt down a fourth successive title.