England's Ollie Chessum Stars in Rampaging Display as Wales Routed 48-7
England delivered a commanding performance at Twickenham, outclassing Wales with a resounding 48-7 victory in the Six Nations. The match saw standout contributions from key players, with Ollie Chessum particularly impressive in a galloping display that underscored his return to form.
Player Ratings: England's Dominant Force
England's squad showcased depth and skill, with several players earning high marks for their efforts on the field.
- Freddie Steward (15): Overcame an uncharacteristic shaky start to grow into the game, delivering a lovely basketball pass to Chessum. Rating: 7/10.
- Tom Roebuck (14): A late call-up who was quiet in the first half but became more involved, scoring a simple finish early in the second. Rating: 7.
- Tommy Freeman (13): Showed thrust in midfield despite a butchered pass, and earned an extra mark with a great late finish. Rating: 7.
- Fraser Dingwall (12): The "glue" player, always solid but rarely spectacular, with a rogue decision to kick when Wales were down two players. Rating: 7.
- Henry Arundell (11): In his first start since the 2023 World Cup, scored England's first try with his first touch and completed a hat-trick shortly after, proving his danger. Rating: 8.
- George Ford (10): Displayed a full array of kicking talents and slick handling, acting as the undoubted ringmaster of the team. Rating: 9.
- Alex Mitchell (9): Provided crisp service, mixed things up to keep Wales honest, and showed improved box-kicking. Rating: 8.
- Ellis Genge (1): Had a tough half, conceding a penalty and being held up, before going off at half-time. Rating: 5.
- Jamie George (2): Showed smart captaincy by calling for a scrum with Wales down to 13, and appeared freed up by his retirement announcement. Rating: 7.
- Joe Heyes (3): Emerged as a reliable presence in a position that was once a weakness, having an easier afternoon at the coalface. Rating: 7.
- Alex Coles (4): Developed into Mr Reliable, running a polished lineout and disrupting Wales's, allowing Maro Itoje to be benched. Rating: 7.
- Ollie Chessum (5): Enjoyed himself after missing the second half of the autumn, galloping up the middle of the field in good nick. Rating: 9.
- Guy Pepper (6): Impressive again with a mountain of work, providing consistency that allows Steve Borthwick to load the bench. Rating: 7.
- Sam Underhill (7): Set the tone with an early charge-down, though no superman tackles were needed in this dominant display. Rating: 7.
- Ben Earl (8): At his effervescent best, making good ground with footwork and taking a try nicely, despite scratchy form coming into the championship. Rating: 9.
Replacements and Wales's Struggles
England's replacements added energy, with Marcus Smith particularly lively upon entry. In contrast, Wales faced a dismal afternoon, struggling to influence proceedings and conceding multiple tries.
- Wales Highlights: Josh Adams scored Wales's only try, ending a 135-minute wait for points, while Tomos Williams showed class but was overwhelmed by dominant opposition.
- Key Issues: Wales's lineout was sloppy, with players like Adam Beard and Dafydd Jenkins having tough afternoons, compounded by yellow cards and poor decisions.
This emphatic win underscores England's strength in the Six Nations, with players like Ollie Chessum and George Ford leading the charge against an outgunned Welsh side.