At last a little respite for English rugby after a difficult few months. The series is not yet won but it is still alive after a frantic, seesawing contest on a still Brisbane evening. England wobbled momentarily but 20 points from the boot of Owen Farrell and an early try for his Saracens teammate Billy Vunipola proved enough to secure their side’s first win in four Tests.
Given the Wallabies had not been beaten in their previous 10 matches at their favourite venue it was a result that will encourage the England management to believe their team could yet fly home triumphant. A strong first-half forward display propelled their team into a crucial 19-0 first-half lead and, despite a spirited Wallaby fightback, the early flood of points was decisive.
