Match overview: England’s 38-18 victory over Fiji
England came through a challenging fixture against Fiji to seal a 38-18 victory, extending their winning run to nine matches. Under Steve Borthwick, the team showed discipline, attacking intent, and a growing ability to close out tight games. The result keeps England on track as they prepare for a far tougher assignment next week against New Zealand at Allianz Stadium.
Key moments and turning points
The match swung in England’s favour with a strong second-half performance, where their efficiency in finishing chances made the difference. A combination of robust defense and clinical finishing allowed England to stretch the lead after a competitive opening period. Fiji, never short of courage, threatened with sniping breaks and quick ruck ball, but could not sustain pressure long enough to overturn the scoreboard.
Player performances that stood out
England’s pack laid the foundations with consistent carries and excellent work at the breakdown, allowing the backs to attack with structure. A standout backline display created the majority of the points through well-timed set-piece moves and rapid distribution. The kicking game was reliable, contributing crucial points and keeping Fiji pinned back in their own half at key moments.
Individually, a few players may have pressed for recall in future tests, with notable contributions in defense and execution under fatigue. The squad’s depth was evident, as different phases of the game were handled with calmness and strategic intent rather than pure force of momentum.
Tactical analysis: how England approached the match
England’s approach blended traditional set-piece solidity with faster ruck speed and more aggressive attacking lines. The forwards controlled the early stages, securing clean ball and building phases that tested Fiji’s defence. In attack, the team used a mix of kick pressure, quick offloads, and runners attacking the fringes to create gaps. Defensively, England showed organization and discipline, reducing Fiji’s options and forcing errors in important moments.
What this result means for the rest of the autumn series
The win keeps England in a strong position as they line up against New Zealand, one of rugby’s toughest tests. While the opposition will present different challenges, the nine-game winning run is a confidence booster and a tangible sign of progress under Borthwick. The squad will now review video work to identify areas for improvement, particularly in continuity under pressure and finishing in the latter stages of matches.
Looking ahead: England vs New Zealand at Allianz Stadium
Next weekend’s fixture against the All Blacks promises a different level of challenge. England will need to replicate the discipline and attacking sharpness shown against Fiji, while adapting to New Zealand’s pace, structure, and at times relentless counter-attack. Coaches will be scrutinizing players’ form in key roles, with selection likely to balance experience with fresh legs to handle a demanding rand of fixtures in a short timeframe.
Radio commentary and how to follow live
Fans can expect comprehensive radio commentary and live updates to accompany the evolving narrative of England’s autumn campaign. For those tracking the game on the move, streaming options and official radio feeds will provide play-by-play coverage, plus expert analysis during and after the match.
Bottom line
England’s current nine-match winning streak marks a significant step forward under Steve Borthwick. The 38-18 victory over Fiji demonstrates a growing balance between forward power and backline efficiency. As they head into a daunting assignment against New Zealand, the team’s confidence should be high, but the focus will be on tightening kinks that surfaced in the Fiji game and maintaining performance consistency across the full 80 minutes.
