Hosts England ran in 11 tries as they brushed aside the United States 69-7 on Friday to win the opening game of the Women’s Rugby World Cup and emphasise their status as pre-tournament favourites.

Red-hot trophy favorite England has launched its home bid for the Women’s Rugby World Cup crown by thrashing the United States 69-7 in front of a record-sized crowd in Sunderland.

A fan zone for 2,000 spectators is to open in Brighton, as the city prepares to host two matches in the Women's Rugby World Cup. England will play Australia at the Amex Stadium on 6 September, with New Zealand playing Ireland at the same venue the following day.