​LIVERPOOL, England (AP) — England eased some of the criticism swirling around them for a week by overwhelming a struggling Fiji with a record 73-8 victory in the Nations Championship on Saturday. After the sting of a chastening defeat to world champions South Africa in Johannesburg last weekend, questions about England’s lineup, approach, and attitude were at least partly quelled by returning home and delivering an equally one-sided 11-try performance against a Fiji team overwhelmed by the competition, discipline problems, and relentless pressure.
Fiji could not cling to possession, and they were unable to cope with England’s combined strength at scrum, maul, and in defense. Under constant pressure, Fiji racked up 12 penalties—nine of them before the break—and a red card to scrumhalf Simione Kuruvoli after he lashed out with his boot, catching Ellis Genge in the stomach. That dismissal left Fiji to play the entire second half with 14 men, while England was free to expand its approach and widen its assault.
England raced to a 35-3 halftime lead and then did not let up, adding six more tries after the break. Replacement flanker Henry Pollock completed a hat trick, underscoring the depth and finish that characterized England’s day. Fin Smith converted nine kicks, contributing to a robust scoring spree that remains a record for England against Fiji and their most decisive win since the 71-0 thrashing of Chile at the 2023 Rugby World Cup in Lille.
The lopsided result underscored England’s capacity to adapt after a tough loss and to apply a full spectrum of pressure across the pitch. With Fiji hamstrung by penalties and a red card, England exploited opportunities in pace, accuracy, and decision-making, showcasing a polished performance from start to finish. The home crowd witnessed a dominant display, a reminder of England’s potential when collective focus aligns with precision and tempo.
This outcome adds a new chapter to the Nations Championship narrative, as England demonstrated a return to form and a rhythmic cohesion that had been missing in the wake of their setback against South Africa. While Fiji will regroup and address their discipline and handling issues, England can take confidence from a performance that blended forward power with back-line speed and clinical finishing.
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