Sunderland once produced a quarter of all the world’s ships. This proud city was the undisputed king of shipbuilding for over six centuries. By the early 20th century, the River Wear was lined with shipyards that built everything from wooden trading vessels to massive steel ships. Over 400 shipyards were registered here, making Sunderland the largest shipbuilding town in the world. Though the industry has since faded, the city’s maritime legacy is immortal.

So maybe it was appropriate that a launch took place at the Stadium of light as the much anticipated 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup set sail.

The home of Sunderland FC may have been an unfancied haunt for England defence coach and Newcastle United fan Sarah Hunter, but the result will have warmed the cockles of her black and white heart.

A first half where a dominant England scrum and a USA yellow card were the catalysts for a four try 28-7 England lead, gave way to a final forty minutes where the team and the crowd relaxed and went into full party mode.

Dow’s try two minutes into the second half put the game beyond any lingering doubt and the game was over as a contest. From then on in the Red Roses ran riot.

Appropriately at the home of shipbuilding it was plain sailing for the tournament hosts. It is likely that England will not be properly tested until the semi final stage of this tournament but that is not their fault. They will continue to work hard and improve as they always do with the prospect of any real jeopardy a distant threat.

So in the words of Anne Marie who sang at the opening ceremony we say ‘Ciao Adios’ to Wearside as England head to Northampton to face Samoa. The 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup is underway god bless her and all who sail in her.