England show their credentials

ENGLAND last night justified their tag as RBS 6 Nations title favourites by claiming a first victory in Cardiff since they were crowned 2003 world champions.

Wing Chris Ashton scored two tries, the unflappable Toby Flood kicked 13 points before going off injured and his replacement Jonny Wilkinson slotted a clinching penalty five minutes from time.

Wales had their moments — wing Morgan Stoddart claimed a second-half touchdown, while Stephen Jones converted and added three penalties — and finished strongly, but they have now gone eight Tests without a win.