England 20 Australia 13: Player ratings
Man for man marking from the first QBE International between England and Australia
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Your support makes all the difference.England:
Mike Brown - 8/10
Having spent a season on the wing, Brown cemented his place at full-back. Sound in defence and the jewel in the crown in attack.
Chris Ashton - 6/10
Defensive howler when missing Israel Folau on the run that led to Australia’s try but should otherwise be happy with his all-round involvement.
Joel Tomkins - 5/10
A difficult day for the new boy. Good tackle on Genia near the line but caught out too frequently.
Billy Twelvetrees - 4/10
Tried hard to make amends for the failed tackle on Australia’s try-scorer and gave away penalty immediately afterwards. His place may be at risk.
Marland Yarde - 5/10
The subject of too many refereeing strictures, but opportunities in attack were limited. Must understand the need for self-discipline but worth another go.
Owen Farrell - 7/10
He will be hurting at three missed penalties in the first half, but made up for it by scoring first international try.
Lee Dickson - 5/10
Could not dictate tempo of England’s game, largely because of his pack’s problems. If he deserved this chance, he certainly deserves another.
Mako Vunipola - 7/10
Must learn to concentrate at set-pieces but strong when he needed to be and very effective around the field.
Tom Youngs - 5/10
Line-out problems in the first half may be laid at his door but he contributed well in the loose.
Dan Cole - 5/10
Cornerstone of England’s evident superiority at the set-scrum though less obvious in broken play.
Joe Launchbury - 6/10
Very solid game from the youngster. Showed up well in the loose, and with ball in hand.
Courtney Lawes - 6/10
Took time to grow into the game. Returned to his natural habitat at lock and will work on his line-out calling.
Tom Wood - 6/10
Important ingredient in denying Australia’s back row the advantage they enjoyed a year ago. Like former great Richard Hill, does his best work unseen.
Chris Robshaw - 7/10
Confirmed his status as captain, seized his try well and generally led from the front.
Billy Vunipola - 7/10
Good showing on first start. The impetus he gave led to England’s second try and his power threatened Australia’s line in first half.
Replacements: Dylan Hartley: effective last quarter, deserves a start; Joe Marler: useful impact player; David Wilson: maintained England’s upper hand; David Attwood: only played last four minutes; Ben Morgan: trying to play back to form; Ben Youngs: took chance to pressure Dickson; Toby Flood: replaced Twelvetrees so was playing out of position.
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