England have struck the first blow in Rugby World Cup year with a 21-16 victory over a fired-up Wales in Cardiff to kick off the Six Nations.
England rugby first five George Ford. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
A dominant second half performance secured the English the win, after the Welsh roared into a 10-0 lead after seven minutes, with halfback Rhys Webb dashing over for the first try.
Wales, starting with 11 of the side that pounded England into submission in a record 30-3 win two years ago in Cardiff, led 16-8 at half-time but didn't score again as England ran out a different side after the break.
Six Nations debutant Jonathan Joseph's try in the early minutes of the second half turned the tide and with their forwards asserting themselves, George Ford kicked England ahead while Wales were down to 14 men.
England thought they had made the game safe in the dying minutes when lock Dave Attwood touched down but the try was ruled out for an infringement.
Ford then landed another penalty to seal a morale-boosting win.
Stuart Lancaster's side will meet Wales in September in the pool stage of the World Cup which both countries co-host.