England player ratings vs Wales: Freddie Steward a rock as Ollie Lawrence shines again but Owen Farrell off
England edged a scrappy encounter 20-10 in Wales to claim their second win in this year’s Six Nations.
Anthony Watson, Kyle Sinckler and Ollie Lawrence all crossed to see England home for their first victory in Cardiff since 2017.
Wales were left to rue a miserable performance to cap a wretched week where a player strike was only just averted.
Here, Nick Purewal reviews England’s performances at the Principality Stadium.
Backs
Freddie Steward 9
The ideal last line of defence, mopping up other messes and a rock under the high ball.
Max Malins 7
Cut a fine line for the first try in another very solid showing.
Henry Slade 7
His dummy run opened the door for Watson’s score and he kept himself busy throughout.
Ollie Lawrence 8
Another powerful performance from the Bath centre growing into the role as England’s midfield focal point.
Anthony Watson 8
Took his try well and proved composed and threatening for the whole game.
Curiously off-kilter off the tee but dragged England home through sheer bloody-mindedness.
Jack van Poortvliet 7
Kept things ticking well enough in a frenetic and scrappy encounter.
Forwards
Ellis Genge 7
Solid in the scrum and powerful around the field.
Jamie George 7
Sharp in the set-piece and worked extremely hard.
Kyle Sinckler 7
Try topped another big showing as England’s scrum continues to improve.
Maro Itoje 7
Faded as the game wore on but an improved showing more akin to his usual self.
Ollie Chessum 7
A major find for England’s engine room.
Lewis Ludlam 8
Excelled over the ball to thwart Wales all day long.
Jack Willis 8
A masterful breakdown operator and major talent.
Alex Dombrandt 7
Beautifully floated pass sent Watson home for the first try.
Replacements
Jack Walker (for George, 79’) 7
Had little to do at the death.
Mako Vunipola (for Genge, 54’) 7
Put himself about to grind England home.
Dan Cole (for Sinckler, 64’) 7
Kept the scrum solid late on.
Courtney Lawes (for Dombrandt, 68’) 7
Back with a few trademark bangs.
Ben Curry (for Willis, 60’) 8
Claimed one vital turnover as England rode Wales’ attacks.
Alex Mitchell (for Van Poortvliet, 72’) 7
Added pace and impetus at the last.
Marcus Smith (for Farrell, 79’) 6
Took to the field for less than a minute.
Henry Arundell (for Malins, 79’) 6
Another to be in action for just the final play.
