AJ Brimson and Jez Litten were among the stars of the show as England reignited their World Cup campaign – earning glowing praise from team-mate Hugo Savala in the process.
Brian McDermott’s side ran riot against France, romping to an emphatic 82-0 victory in the second week of the tournament to keep their semi-final hopes alive.
After the crushing disappointment of their opening 30-12 defeat to Tonga, England responded in spectacular fashion with a 14-try demolition in Perth.
England now know exactly what is needed to keep their World Cup journey alive – a Tonga win over Samoa and a 68-point swing, set to play Papua New Guinea in the final week of the group stages.
Brimson and Litten were both at the heart of England’s 14-try victory in Perth to keep that hope ticking.
Full-back Brimson was in electrifying form, racking up a game-high 289 metres alongside a try, three assists and five line breaks in a player-of-the-match display.
And Savala was full of praise for his fellow NRL star.
“I thought he was unreal,” Savala said. “I thought he was our best.
“He gave us that energy when he carried. He’s got those fast feet and powerful carries, and he created a lot of opportunities.
“His support play was great, too. He created a lot of opportunities which we needed, and plenty of points were scored through him.
“He’s definitely a key part of our game, and he brings a lot of energy to the group. He’s got that attacking flair, but also that cool, calm head as a full-back.”
Litten also made his mark after coming off the interchange bench for Brad O’Neill, adding another dimension to England’s attack around the ruck.
The hooker crossed for a try in the triumph, while Hull KR team-mate Mikey Lewis also made an impact off the bench, grabbing a brace.
Savala was equally impressed with Litten’s influence, highlighting the hooker’s ability to keep everyone on their toes.
“Brad set up the game brilliantly,” he said. “He’s a great defender and does a great job around the ruck. Then it was good when Jez came on, too, and created some opportunities.
“He was keeping the ruck accountable. He’s got great vision around the ruck, and everyone knows that and reacts to his decision-making, whether he runs or passes.
“Everyone is on their toes when he’s at nine.”