Alex Goode: Sparked the Saxons' onslaught
England Saxons claimed a fifth Churchill Cup title by beating Canada in some style, 38-13, at the Red Bull Arena in New Jersey on Saturday.
Nick Abendanon and Alex Goode scored early tries as the Saxons established an early 17-0 lead, Stephen Myler converting both to add to an early penalty.
Canada, in their first Churchill Cup final, hit back as Matt Evans and Chauncey O'Toole touched down, but two more Myler penalties ensured the Saxons led 23-13 at half-time.
A converted try from Jon Clarke early in the second period finished the game as a contest, before Luke Narraway got on the scoresheet with 20 minutes to play.
Ryan Smith touched down late on for Canada, but the Saxons, who played some impressive, fluent rugby at times, had already secured a deserved win.
Comments
KubilaKhan says...
LOVED IT! So happy to see International Rugby in the Northeast. I can't travel to Cal or Colorodo, but Jersey i could manage. One of the best experiences ever!
Posted 18:40 29th November 2010
GoldenDino says...
It's great to see a Churchill Cup story on the front page, but I am a little frustrated that Canada beating France A was not even mentioned. This is the first time Canada has made the finals and they beat a very solid France A squad consisting of many Top 14 players which will easily be on the French WC team coming next year.
Congrats to the Saxons and congrats to the Canadians for finally breaking into the final.
Posted 17:45 20th June 2010