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Match Result
A good second half for England has seen them cruise to a commanding 35 to 11 win over Fiji at Twickenham in the opening game of the Rugby World Cup.
It was a nervous opening from both sides as the weather appeared to affect the way the game was played for most of the first half. Mike Brown was absolutely superb in a man of the match performance for England with two tries and over 140 running metres.
In a game that was hardly the greatest spectacle, both sides will need to improve heading into their second pool games, but England will be satisfied knowing they finished the game with the four try bonus point.
Match Preview
The time for talking stops now as England open up their home Rugby World Cup against Fiji under lights at Twickenham. Join The Roar for all the action from 4:45am (AEST).
Expect a vocal crowd with a full house of 82,000 expected for this game at England’s HQ.
This is a must-win game for both sides, with difficult games against Australia and Wales to shape this pool.
While you might expect England to win, you only have to think back to 2007 when Fiji upset Wales, as the Welsh tried to beat the Fijians at their own game.
The Fijians come into the game with good form, winning four of their last five games, and a draw against Samoa.
England have also won four of their last five, but against much stronger opponents, their sole loss coming against France 25-20.
Both sides are stocked with talents. While the Fijians will be missing Top 14 star Napolioni Nalaga, they have the services of Niko Matawalu and Metuisela Talebula.
Fijian captain Akapusi Qera may be cheered by fans from both countries after his stint in Gloucester’s No. 7 jersey. Giant winger Nemani Nadolo may score the odd try, but he’ll likely have to run in six for this game to be close.
For England, Bath’s Jonathan Joseph and Leicester’s Tom Youngs are the ones to watch.
Prediction
England to win this comfortably in front of a massive crowd.
England by 24.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.