England players show solidarity with Samoa

The Samoan players wore blue wristbands during the game as a protest against how rugby is run in Samoa

The England and Samoan players joined arms in a huddle in a wonderful post-match gesture at Twickenham.

The Samoan players wore blue wristbands during the game as a protest against how rugby is run in Samoa and had at one stage considered strike action before World Rugby and the International Rugby Players' Association agreed to help.

Whilst there was no direct suggestion that England were showing political support for their opponents, skipper Chris Robshaw did say immediately afterwards: “That is the brilliant thing about the rugby community. You all support each other. We all know there are issues going on in Samoan rugby and they could have pulled out of the game. So we are extremely grateful that they honoured the game and it was a great spectacle.”

Head coach Stuart Lancaster said: “I think it was instigated by the Samoan players. Kahn Fotuali'i (the Northampton and Samoa scrum half) was the architect behind it with the Northampton boys. I thought it was a nice way to finish the game to be honest.”

And fly-half George Ford, who impressed on his first Test start, said: “It's a thing Samoa do. They like to finish the game with that and get everyone together and say a prayer and each team thanks each other for the game and wish them luck.”

England scored three tries in their 28-9 victory, with Jonny May grabbing two and Mike Brown the other, and Ford kicking 13 points, but it was never a convincing display, even if it was a win after five successive losses.

“We are pleased to get the win,” said Lancaster. “It has been a while coming. I was really pleased with some of the young players who are making starts in their careers, particularly George (Ford) and Anthony Watson who really stood out in that regard. I thought they both had great games. We didn't get everything right by any stretch of the imagination but it was great to get the win.”

Of Ford, Lancaster said: “It is a big responsibility for such a young player to come on and try and run a game. I thought he did it well. He looked incisive on his line breaks and he has got a great eye for a gap. His kicking game was good. He took some hits and showed a great deal of bravery. I thought it was a really positive first game for him.”

England now face Australia next Saturday in their last game of the autumn, with Lancaster facing some selection dilemmas, particularly about Ford at fly-half, with Owen Farrell having been moved to inside centre for this match.

“We have got that decision to make,” said Lancaster. “He has waited patiently for his chance and he has put a real marker down.”

Ford himself said: “It's out of my hands but I would love to play against Australia. You always want to play for your country but I'll sleep well today because I am tired.

“I was nervous because it was my start for England but I think it was good nerves but I had a lot of good people around me today. And I think we showed glimpses of what we can do.

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“I would have to wait but they let us know quite early in the week but even if it doesn't happen I'll support the team as best I can. I am sure that the coaches will come up with a brilliant plan on how to attack Australia because it will be a tough game.”

England's only injury worry is a bang to the knee suffered by lock Courtney Lawes.