England's Red Roses returned to winning ways in New Jersey, beating a spirited United States 55-12, though doubts remain over their position at the top of the women's game.
Wing Claudia Moloney-Mac Donald crossed twice in the first 12 minutes, her second try coming via a looping mis-pass from fly-half Holly Aitchison. The United States, who were beaten 69-7 by England in the opening match of England's march to the Rugby World Cup last year, stuck in the contest far longer than they did that day in Sunderland. The sixth-ranked underdogs were still competitive deep into the second half, with a thunderous hit from Alev Kelter hoisting and dumping England captain Meg Jones, rallying her team.
Ultimately Moloney-Mac Donald ran in four tries as England exploited space out wide. However, their final performance of the WXV Global Series, following two losses to Canada over the previous fortnight, will give head coach John Mitchell plenty to ponder before the start of their Women's Six Nations title defence in April.
The United States claimed a second try with the final play of the match, as Kate Zackery dived over around the fringes at the end of a surge that summed up their determination.
Source: BBC Sport · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing