Monday 5 February 2018 10:36, UK
Eddie Jones has hailed the performance of Sam Simmonds following his Six Nations debut in England's 46-15 win over Italy.
The hosts had trailed by 12 points (15-27) with 13 minutes remaining, before England underscored a comprehensive showing to hit them for three tries and 19 points.
Anthony Watson and Sam Simmonds both scored two tries apiece, with Owen Farrell, George Ford and replacement Jack Nowell also crossing.
But Jones singled out the performance of the Exeter No 8 - who was making his Six Nations debut - for special mention.
"When the game opened up he was in his element," said the England head coach. "He's got gas. He does all our speed work with the backs. He's a great discovery for us and gives us great options at No 8."
Prior to kick-off, Jones admitted that all the pressure was on his team to perform and England found an Italy side in a stoic mood for three quarters of the game.
When asked for his reaction to the display, Jones said: "Very positive. It was always going to be a tough game. We knew they'd hang in there and they played exceptionally well.
"Good credit to Italy. Conor O'Shea is doing a great job coaching them. It was a good tough game of rugby and we ran away with it in the end."
Italy head coach, Conor O'Shea, said he was "proud and annoyed" by Italy's performance and felt his side contributed more to the contest than the final scoreline suggested.
"We can see where we're building towards in the future," said the former Harlequins boss. "We know it's step by step.
"It'll [this result] be another statistic in the book for people but anyone who was here today, would have seen what we're trying to do.
"We know we're off in certain areas. We know the progress we have to make. But we are making it. I think at least what people saw out there was a team being competitive, playing proper rugby with a lot more to come."
