George at the double as England down Italy in Rome

Finn Russell's late penalty had dealt England a third successive Guinness Six Nations Round 1 defeat, but Eddie Jones' men ran in three first-half tries in the Italian capital to ensure Kieran Crowley's first home Championship game in charge ended in defeat. George's double followed Marcus Smith's opener, while Elliot Daly added the bonus-point score early in the second half. Kyle Sinckler added a fifth late on as England boosted their points difference in a bid to get back into Championship contention.

Ad/> Italy Under-20s had made history on Friday night with a first-ever win over England at that level but very soon it became clear that there would be no repeat in Rome. RugbyWales edge past Scotland to open championship account34 MINUTES AGO FAST START An early Italian rolling maul was stopped in its tracks to secure a turnover and on ten minutes England struck for the first time. It came from some delightful flat passing on the gain line, allowing England's forwards to punch holes.

That eventually opened up space out wide, and Smith floated a pass out to Max Malins who got outside the defence before feeding back to his fly-half for a second try in as many games. He converted from out wide and England led 7-0. Italy threatened an immediate reply, Paolo Garbisi's chip over the top collected by Marco Zanon who then found Braam Steyn, but the back-rower was hauled down in the 22 and the attack came to nothing.

Instead it was England who struck again on 20 minutes. After a lineout drive, the impressive Harry Randall darted through a gap before finding Malins. Quick ball kept Italy on the back foot and in the end it was George who crashed over from close range.