England unconvincing despite win in Canada

Canada 5 England 29

England booked their place in the Churchill Cup final with a predictable victory over outclassed Canada but it was an unconvincing performance from Joe Lydon’s side.

Paul Sackey, Sam Vesty, Tom Voyce, James Simpson-Daniel and Pat Sanderson touched down to set-up a tournament decider against Argentina – who edged past the USA Eagles 34-30 earlier in the day – but Lydon has been given plenty to ponder.

Partly as a result of the Canadians’ gutsy performance, but largely thanks to their own shortcomings, England never stamped their authority on the match and failed to generate the momentum they wanted.

Lydon’s starting line-up contained five capped internationals, with two players – Andy Goode and Chris Jones – appearing in this year’s RBS 6 Nations, but they found it hard work against the feisty hosts.