England U20s crush France 59-17 in Six Nations opener
Last Updated: 04/02/17 2:24pm
England Under-20s lay down an early marker with a nine-try 59-17 victory over France in their Six Nations opener at Sandy Park.
Fly-half Max Malins scored a try in each half and kicked seven conversions for a 24-point haul as England avenged last season's 41-17 mauling at the hands of Les Bleus.
Joe Cokanasiga, Ben Earl, Will Butler, Tom Curry and Malins all touched down in the first half to give England a 31-3 lead at the interval.
Tries from Selevasio Tolofua and Baptiste Pesenti sandwiched a score from Max Wright as France briefly rallied. However, England finished strongly with Malins, Sam Aspland-Robinson and Tom Parton completing a comprehensive victory.
Next up for England is a trip to Colwyn Bay to face Wales, who began their Championship with a 27-5 win in Italy on Friday night. Scarlets teenager Ryan Conbeer scored a stunning try as the visitors recovered from a sluggish start.
Ireland also registered a win on the road as Paul Boyle's 72nd-minute try gave them a 20-19 win over Scotland at Broadwood Stadium.