England player ratings: Freddie Steward produces an aerial masterclass in victory over Wales
Following a 20-10 victory over Wales in their Six Nations Test at the Principality Stadium on Saturday, here are the player ratings for England.
15 Freddie Steward: One knock-on aside, he was brilliant in the air in both attack and defence. Easily the best in the world under the high ball. Also assisted Ollie Lawrence’s try. 8
14 Max Malins: Another player whose aerial skills impressed. Was at fault for Wales’ try but made up for the error after that. 7
13 Henry Slade: Partnership with Owen Farrell isn’t really working at the moment. Some decent things but it doesn’t convince us this midfield combination is the way Steve Borthwick should go, especially when the Saracens fly-half is playing as badly as he is. 6
12 Ollie Lawrence: Another good display from the centre. Didn’t make a huge impact with ball in hand but there were some significant contributions from Lawrence. 7
11 Anthony Watson: Likes playing against Wales and scored yet another try, but didn’t get his hands on the ball too much. When the wing did, he caused the opposition problems. 6
10 Owen Farrell (c): Poor, poor, poor. It’s hard to justify his place in the team at the moment. Kicking off the tee was once again abysmal and his decision-making and execution was completely off. 4
9 Jack van Poortvliet: Box-kicking was much better and service improved. Slowed down a bit after the break but it’s sometimes difficult to assess when England as a team are rather laboured at times. 7
England dominate the breakdown
8 Alex Dombrandt: Much better from the number eight, who showed his power and skill set. Some lovely touches throughout. 7
7 Jack Willis: Was a constant threat at the contact area, eventually winning one penalty turnover and slowing down the ball plenty more times. 7
6 Lewis Ludlam: Continues to be England’s best player in this Six Nations. Whether carrying, tackling or breakdown work, he was everywhere. 8
5 Ollie Chessum: Not as influential as the previous two games but still another good game from the talented lock. 7
4 Maro Itoje: Maro’s back? Not quite but this was a vast improvement on his previous performances. Was typically niggly and made some big interventions. 7
3 Kyle Sinckler: Set-piece was scrappy with no team clearly getting on top, but he once again contributed well in the loose. 7
2 Jamie George: Much better in the loose as he defended his heart out and also carried more. 7
1 Ellis Genge: Some massive carries from the prop in Cardiff. Whenever Genge had the ball he went forward and stressed the Welsh defence. 8
Replacements: Most of them came on late in the day, but Ben Curry made a key intervention while Courtney Lawes was busy. 7
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