England vs Australia: Second-half rally sees hosts to victory at Twickenham
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England swept aside Australia 37-18 to claim a sixth successive victory over the Wallabies and complete a successful autumn series at Twickenham marred only by a controversial defeat to New Zealand.
The old enemies were deadlocked at 13-13 entering half-time but blistering tries from Elliot Daly and Joe Cokanasiga opened up daylight before the win became a rout when Owen Farrell touched down in the closing stages.
Apart from losing their way in the second quarter, England dominated the Cook Cup showdown with man of the match Kyle Sinckler, Jonny May and Cokanasiga outstanding.
Victory was secured against one of the poorest Wallaby teams seen at Twickenham in recent years, the tourists enfeebled by the loss of David Pocock to a neck injury and tumultuous build up due to senior players Kurtley Beale and Adam Ashley-Cooper being disciplined for bringing women back to their hotel rooms.
Among the biggest roars of the afternoon was reserved for Manu Tuilagi, who finally made his first Test appearance for two years as a final-quarter replacement having overcome a groin strain.
Re-live the action below:
Manu Tuilagi is back on the teamsheet after a two-year absence. His last appearance for England Wales in March 2016, when he came off the bench for the final 17 minutes of the match.
He starts as a substitute today, but Eddie Jones has warned throughout this series that the Leicester Tigers man is noway near full fitness. With the World Cup next year, Jones won't want to risk the player given what he brings to this England side. In truth, I'm not holding out any hope to to see him in action today.
Right, around five minutes to go until kick-off. Twickenham is almost full and being treated to a rendition of Jerusalem. The well-lubricated masses are loving it.
And the players are out! A special mention goes to Will Genia who will be earning his 100th cap for Australia today.
And that's the national anthems done - it's almost time. What a game this should be!
KICK-OFF!
Owen Farrell sends it long and we're under way.
1 min: A strong start for England! With Australia camped out inside their own 22 from kick-off, Foley attempts to clear but his kick is closed down by Youngs. The hosts pile forward and push the visitors beyond their own try-line. England scrum.
England 7-0 Australia (May try, Farrell conversion, 3 mins)
From the 5-metre scrum, England get the push on but opt to pop it out to the right. Youngs was on hand to receive the ball from Mark Wilson before sending it out wide to May on the wing. The Tigers man did the rest, touching down right in the corner. Farrell converts.
6 min: Penalty for Australia after England are pulled up for offside. To'omua to kick... and he makes it. England 7-3 Australia.
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