England ran in five tries with skipper Katy McLean the star of the show in her first season leading the side having taken over from Catherine Spencer after the heart-breaking world cup final loss to New Zealand last September.

Fly-half McLean opened the scoring with an early try as she made the most of concerted pressure in the Irish 22.

Lichfield's Sarah Hunter grabbed England's second as the No. 8 touched down for a pushover try midway through the half with McLean converting for a 12-0 half-time lead.

Worcester prop Rochelle Clark scored her third try in two games after the break as she barged her way over before Danielle Waterman's pop pass set up Bristol's Sophie Hemming for her first try in England colours.

There was still time for a fifth as recalled openside Maggie Alphonsi finished things off with an injury-time score to seal the win.

"Not only did we score some good tries but we defended excellently," said head coach Street.

"We have set another championship record in terms of points conceded and I think that is a tremendous achievement."

"Obviously I am absolutely delighted with this result, but most importantly the effort from the players.

"After the world cup there could have been a hangover but it is an absolute credit to the girls the way they have come back and put the work in on and off the field."