England are one step closer to another Grand Slam after a thrilling 61-33 victory over Italy in the Women's Six Nations, but it wasn't all smooth sailing for John Mitchell's side.

Flanker Marlie Packer was the star of the show, crossing the try line an incredible four times in a display of pure power and determination. England's forwards dominated the physical battles, with seven of their nine tries coming from the pack. Amy Cokayne added two tries of her own, while Abi Burton also got in on the action.

However, there's a silver lining for Italy—and a warning for England. The Azzurri scored five tries of their own, racking up 33 points, the most they've ever managed against the Red Roses. It's the second straight match where England's defense has looked vulnerable, after Wales also scored four tries against them in the previous round.

With the Grand Slam on the line in next weekend's final match against France in Bordeaux, Mitchell will know there's work to do in defense. But if this attacking performance is anything to go by, England's firepower might just be enough to carry them through.

The match also featured some special moments: Christiana Balogun made her England debut, an emotional milestone three years after being given the all-clear from Burkitt lymphoma. Helena Rowland celebrated her 50th cap with a first-half try, and Zoe Harrison was near-perfect off the tee, converting eight of England's nine tries.

Despite missing 17 players through injury—including Maddie Feaunati, who suffered a leg injury earlier in the week—England's depth shone through. Their front row was outstanding, combining raw carrying power with slick handling skills that proved the difference between the two sides.

Scoring sequence: 0-5 Packer try, 0-7 Harrison con, 0-12 Cokayne try, 0-14 Harrison con, 0-19 Rowland try, 0-21 Harrison con, 0-26 Venner try, 5-26 Vecchini try, 5-31 Cokayne try, 5-33 Harrison con, 12-33 penalty try, 12-38 Packer try, 12-40 Harrison con, 17-40 Ranuccini try, 19-40 Sillari con, 19-45 Burton try.