FORMER South Bromsgrove High School pupil Jordan Crane played his part as England under-21s started the Rugby Union World Championships in France with a win.

England made a strong start in Group A by trouncing Fiji 34-8 in Vichy last Friday.

Crane, who now plays for Leeds Tykes, started the game and produced a mature performance in defence, which allowed England to run Fiji ragged. He also capped a fine display with the final try.

After dominating the game's opening stages England opened the scoring through Toby Flood's penalty. The Newcastle player went onto top score for the national side with 19 points.

Despite Fiji scoring a try to go 5-3 up England were always in control and Flood scored two penalties and a try. Ryan Lamb grabbed England's second try, before Anthony Allen and Paul Diggin scored in the second half.

Crane made sure England sealed a bonus point when he crashed down.

Coach Jim Mallinder said: "It was a very difficult match. Fiji were a big physical side but also skillful and talented and we had to work hard to win. In the end it was pleasing to get a bonus point but we will have to improve."