Megan Jones scored a try in the opening minute of the match at the UCD Bowl to give England a strong start, her effort setting the tone for the tie.

Winger Kay Wilson completed a first half hat-trick of tries after 31 minutes of play, helping England into a 24-5 half-time lead.

She scored her fourth of the match in the second-half as Spain were unable to respond.

England scored1 0 tries in the match to triumph 56-5 in their Pool B opener.

In other matches, also played at the UCD Bowl, the United States began impressively in the second Group B match as they overcame Italy 24-12.

New Zealand began their quest to regain the title they lost three years ago by overcoming Wales 44-12 in Pool A.

They sit second in the standings, after Canada stormed to an 98-0 victory over Hong Kong.

Hosts Ireland earned victory against Australia in a tough match, eventually edging their opponents 19-17.

Their Pool C rivals France thrashed Japan 72-14.

Pool stage matches are also due to place on August 13 and 17.

Following the conclusion of the round, the semi-finals are due to take place at the Kingspan Stadium on August 22 with the final scheduled for August 26 at the home of Ulster Rugby in Belfast.

Ranking play-off games will take place at Belfast's Queen's University on the same dates.