Two penalties from Niamh Briggs had seen Ireland go into half-time level, but a rousing second-half performance from England saw them home.

Ireland began the stronger and Briggs kicked them into an early lead after Maggie Alphonsi was penalised for not rolling away.

Briggs' kicking continued to pen England back but two storming breaks from Katherine Merchant helped England take the initiative and McLean twice punished some Irish infringements to push Gary Street's side into the lead.

The impressive Alphonsi was then forced off with a leg injury and Ireland began to exert dominance at the break-down, with some tough tackling keeping England out.

Briggs immediately restored parity for Ireland with another penalty and the sides left the pitch level at 6-6 going into the break. Street's England side had amassed 138 points in the tournament prior to the game, but the Irish defensive resistance was out in full force.

Philip Doyle's women began the second-half as they began the first and his side continued to mount pressure and a strong surge from Sophie Spence drew a high tackle as Ireland set-up camp in England's half.

England's first foray into the Irish half drew an offside and McLean kicked England back ahead. Street rung the changes and it then got better for England and McLean, when the fly-half looped around Rachael Burford from first-phase ball and raced home from half-way for an excellent try which she converted.

McLean missed two chances to extend England's lead but replacement Turner burrowed over from close range and McLean converted to put England 23-6 ahead.

Ireland battled valiantly as they sought a consolation try, but England's defence, which had conceded just six points in four matches, held out to send the English fans at Esher into raptures.