England delivered a commanding performance at Twickenham, securing a 47-24 victory over Italy in the Six Nations on Sunday. The seven-try display propelled England above Ireland in the tournament standings, showcasing an impressive attacking display.
Tom Willis, Tommy Freeman, Ollie Sleightholme (2), Marcus Smith, Tom Curry, and Ben Earl all crossed the whitewash for England, while Fin Smith contributed 12 points from the boot. However, the win was marred by an injury to Ollie Lawrence, who left the field in a protective boot, raising concerns ahead of England’s crucial clash with Wales in Cardiff.
A Thrilling First Half
The first half was an electrifying affair, with both teams embracing an expansive style of play under the bright March sunshine. The five first-half tries kept the Twickenham crowd on the edge of their seats.
England wasted no time getting on the scoreboard, striking in the third minute. A break down the right wing by Tommy Freeman set up Tom Curry, who recycled the ball to Tom Willis, diving over for the first try.
However, England’s joy was short-lived as Ollie Lawrence suffered an apparent Achilles injury, forcing him off the field in distress. Italy capitalized on the pause in play, responding with a well-executed chip kick from Paolo Garbisi, followed by another from Monty Ioane, allowing Ange Capuozzo to sprint over and level the scores at 7-7.
Italy had a chance to edge ahead in the 23rd minute, but Garbisi’s penalty attempt went astray, and England swiftly made them pay at the other end. Elliot Daly’s precision kick behind the defense allowed Freeman to touch down, restoring England’s lead.
Italy hit back once more, this time through Ross Vintcent, who finished a breathtaking move started by Capuozzo’s dazzling run through midfield. However, England responded in kind, as Ollie Sleightholme found himself in space on the left flank and raced over to extend the lead to 21-14.
A late Garbisi penalty before halftime kept Italy within striking distance, as they trailed by just four points at the break.
England Takes Control in the Second Half
England emerged for the second half with renewed intensity, and within seven minutes, they had effectively sealed the contest. Marcus Smith and Tom Curry both scored in quick succession, stretching England’s lead to 35-17 by the 47th minute.
The momentum continued as Maro Itoje and Jamie George combined brilliantly to send Sleightholme over for his second try, pushing the score to 42-17. Fin Smith’s conversion from the touchline added further gloss to the scoreboard.
With the bonus point secured, England slowed the tempo, making a series of substitutions, including the withdrawal of the 100-cap veteran Jamie George.
Italy managed to break the deadlock in the 71st minute, when Martin Page-Relo’s pass found Tommaso Menoncello, who crossed for Italy’s third try. However, England had the final say, as Ben Earl powered over late on to round off the commanding victory.
England’s Six Nations Campaign Gains Momentum
The victory saw Steve Borthwick’s side leapfrog Ireland in the standings, but Lawrence’s injury will be a concern ahead of next week’s clash against Wales. Meanwhile, Italy will be left to reflect on a promising first half that ultimately unraveled under England’s relentless attacking pressure.
England now sets its sights on Cardiff, hoping to build on this dominant display as they continue their pursuit of Six Nations glory.
