Tickle leads way as England romp to victory over Russia

Wigan forward Danny Tickle led the way with 30 points from 11 goals and two tries as England A opened their European Nations Cup campaign with 19 tries in a 102-0 thrashing of Russia at Odsal yesterday.

England were already in command when they led 38-0 at half time but the one-way traffic became even more intense in the second half.

The home side simply had too much power, skill and pace for the visitors. Wigan prop Danny Sculthorpe and Bradford's Rob Parker led the way up front with Leeds hooker Matt Diskin, captain for the day, organising well.

In the second half Leeds winger Mark Calderwood completed a hat-trick and set up fellow winger Ade Gardner, of St Helens, for his hat-trick to bring up the century.

Elsewhere, the National League One side saw off New Zealand A by 40 points to 28 to send the visitors home from their short tour without a win.

However, the New Zealanders gave the National League side a scare with two converted tries in the last 10 minutes after they had trailed 40-16.

Leigh's John Duffy won the man of the match award with a masterful display at scrum-half. His club team-mate Neil Turley finished with 20 points from two tries and six goals.