The final of England’s Rugby World Cup warm-up games could not have more hinging on it. Defeats in two of their three preparation matches so far, plus off-field problems including injuries and suspensions, have piled the pressure on the Red Rose.
Before the tournament gets underway in just a fortnight’s time, Steve Borthwick’s men have one last chance to build some confidence in themselves and among supporters that they can put together a title run in France. That comes against Fiji at Twickenham today.
The Pacific islanders have put together a strong squad for the World Cup and are no team to be taken lightly these days, despite having lost every one of their matches with England previously. They know a victory in west London will send a big message to their Pool C rivals. Follow England vs Fiji LIVE via Standard Sport’s matchday blog, featuring expert analysis from Nick Purewal at Twickenham!
Live updates
Thanks for joining us!
Well. We’ll see you in a fortnight for the kick-off of the Rugby World Cup.
Are England ready? Let’s just say there aren’t many serious predictions that they’ll get very far.
Recap the action from a historic win for Fiji here.
Watch the Fijian celebrations
This is Fiji’s day
But, of course, a lot of focus will be on England after that display.
Weak. Scared. Confused. Tame. Plenty of words for it.
Nick Purewal at Twickenham
Fiji claim their first-ever win over England, triumphing 30-22 at Twickenham. Full credit to Simon Raiwalui’s side. They were everything England are not.
Steve Borthwick and England are in big, big trouble ahead of this World Cup.
England 22-30 Fiji: FULL TIME!
HISTORY FOR FIJI!
England 22-30 Fiji: 79 mins
The brilliant Selestino Ravutaumada is named man of the match, the 23-year-old Drua wing has been awesome today.
Nick Purewal at Twickenham
Fiji win a turnover penalty deep in their own 22 and the visitors’ fans go crazy once again. The Islanders are closing in on a historic victory here.
England 22-30 Fiji: 77 mins
FIJI FANS GO WILD!
England get to within a few metres of the try line but can’t release the ball and a penalty is called. Those adorned in blue flags are celebrating in their corner of Twickenham!
A huge attack to repel with such little time left…
Nick Purewal at Twickenham
The chant of ‘Fiji, Fiji, Fiji’ rings around a stunned Twickenham, as the Simione Kuruvoli claims a third try for the Islanders. Muntz’s conversion puts Fiji into a 30-22 lead.
England 22-30 Fiji: 75 mins
To catch you up, Will Stuart, David Ribbans and Danny Care came on for Dan Cole, Ollie Chessum and Alex Mitchell before that try.
They’ve got a hell of a job on.