England produced a strong second-half performance to down Wales 24-13 in Llanelli on Saturday to go top of Pool A of the Autumn Nations Cup.
The win secures England a home playoff match as well as their eighth consecutive victory since their Six Nations opening-round loss against to France earlier this year.
England started the match on the front foot, dominating possession, but Wales took the lead on 10 minutes. Henry Slade’s kick was charged down inside the hosts’ half and, after Dan Biggar hacked the bouncing ball forward, Johnny Williams managed to kick it on again and place down for the first points of the game.
England were on the board four minutes later after an initial break by Sam Underhill had Kyle Sinckler go close to crossing, but the ball was spun wide and Slade strolled in unopposed.
England took the lead for the first time when Owen Farrell knocked over a penalty on 30 minutes, and he repeated the feat just before the break for an 11-7 half-time lead.
England’s second try came when Mako Vunipola barged over for his first international score since 2014, but two penalties from Biggar got Wales to within five points.
However, England stretched their advantage when Farrell knocked over his third penalty to extend England’s lead to two scores.
A superb Jack Willis turnover secured England another kickable penalty, which Farrell slotted as he took his personal haul to 14 points on the day.
Photo: England Rugby
