England beat Italy 36-11 in the opening game of the Six Nations on Saturday, but it was a flattering win as they failed to show the improvement Martin Johnson had demanded following their November drubbings.
England were never in danger from the moment Andy Goode marked his return to international rugby with a try after two minutes to set them on the way to a 22-6 halftime lead thanks to further scores by Harry Ellis and Riki Flutey.
However, against a disorganised and injury-ravaged Italian side, England played barely any constructive rugby and managed only a second try for Ellis and a late score for Mark Cueto.
Italy eventually found some confidence and got a deserved late try by winger Mirco Bergamasco. — Reuters