England 59 Italy 13: Ashton shines at Twickenham

Chris Ashton scored four tries as England ran riot 59-13 against Italy at Twickenham to underline their status as grand slam favourites, writes Nick Westby.

By The Newsroom

Published 12th Feb 2011, 17:25 BST

The former rugby league winger has now scored six tries in two games as Martin Johnson’s side strengthened their position at the top of the Six Nations table.

Ashton did his now famous swallow dive to salute his first and fourth tries at the start and end of the match at a packed Twickenham.

Otley-born captain Mike Tindall, Leeds-born Danny Care, Mark Cueto and James Haskell added the other tries as England executed their offensive moves in a ruthless demonstration of attacking rugby.

The half-back partnership of Ben Youngs and Toby Flood was a constant source of menace, with the latter adding 18 points with the boot before giving way to Jonny Wilkinson, who added three more conversions.

Ongaro scored a late consolation for Italy, while Merco Bergamasco added eight points with the boot.