ENGLAND kicked off their World Under 21 Championship campaign in style with a winning 34-8 performance against Fiji fitting of the near perfect conditions in Vichy, France.

Although England, who included Worcester Warriors youngsters Richard Blaze and Uche Oduoza, dominated the opening exchanges, pushing forwards with wave after wave of attack, the Fijians showed they were equally competent in defence.

Coach Jim Mallinder said: "It was a difficult match. Fiji were a big physical side but also skilful 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 for our next difficult game against New Zealand."

England's patience was rewarded when they were awarded a penalty just outside the 22 after the Fijians infringed in a ruck. Newcas-tle's Toby Flood slotted the kick to put England on the scoreboard after four minutes. Flood, playing at inside centre, was England's outstanding player, scoring 19 of his side's points.

With their line-out dominance nullifying the Fijian game plan to kick for territory, the islanders started moving the ball to their big midfield runners and demonstrating a sevens style of rugby that threatened England's lead.

A break from centre Gab-iriele Lovobalavi was stopped by a thundering tackle from Quins full back Mike Brown but the Fijians recycled it for centre Naipolioni Vonowale to dive over in the corner and edge his team to a 5-3 lead.

But England kept their calm and, moments later, a second Flood penalty restored their lead. Then a neat break from Flood resulted in a converted try for Chris Robshaw.

With a 13-5 lead, England settled in to their game plan. Their dominance of set-piece and control in open play was obvious but as their attacking confidence developed so did their hold on the game.

It wasn't until the 60th minute that England were able to add to their tally. But when it came it was worth waiting for, with replacement Ryan Davis crossing first. Northampton wing Paul Diggin followed him over on 72 minutes and number eight Jordan Crane crashed over to give England the all important bonus point fourth try.