England claimed the first win of their New Zealand tour beating the Crusaders 38-7 in Christchurch today.
Fielding players who had little involvement so far in the tour, England were in control for most of the game against a Super Rugby outfit, who were missing most of their big names, to score six tries in total.
Joe Gray, Ben Foden, Bradd Barritt and Alex Goode all went over in the first half to see England lead 26-7 at the break while Anthony Watson and Chris Pennell rounded up a strong display for Stuart Lancaster‘s side.
England showed their intentions from the kick off with Danny Cipriani attacking the line and setting up Harlequins hooker Gray with the opening try of the game.
Northampton full-back Foden was next on the scoreboard snatching a ball from the grasp of his opposite winger to touch down in the corner.
Trailing 12-0 after less than ten minutes, the hosts eventually got in the game and Matt Todd, who had just come off the bench, went over to make it a five-point game after 25 minutes.
England went back on the attack though and Sarcens duo Barritt and Alex Goode both beat two defenders to score and make it 26-7 at the break.
The second half never got going but England did score the only try through Bath flyer Anthony Watson who showed his pace and quick feet beating three defenders to dive under the posts on the your mark.
More errors prevented England from scoring but Worcester full-back Chris Pennell did go over on the last play.