1 Oliver Scola — 7
Scrummaging was a real strength throughout, with the 20-year-old Northampton Saints prop more than holding his own against South Africa’s front row after a solid shift at the set-piece.
2 Jimmy Staples — 7
The Harlequins forward endured a difficult start at the lineout, struggling with his first two throws, although he responded well with a strong clearout at the breakdown.
Forced off briefly for a head injury assessment after 26 minutes, he returned shortly after and improved as the game progressed, with an impressive 11 tackles.
Can also be commended for doing a full 80 minutes due to injuries elsewhere.
3 Ollie Streeter — 7
The 20-year-old Harlequins prop marked his presence with the opening try, powering over from close range after a solid start at the scrum.
He largely held his own against a physical South African pack, although his display was blemished by a costly turnover and a couple of penalties conceded.
4 Elliot Williams — 7
Williams put in plenty of hard work without seeing much of the ball, limiting his influence on the game. He did, however, show good defensive awareness to recover and intercept a pass after an earlier knock-on in a dangerous position. Made a decent eight tackles.
5 Aiden Ainsworth-Cave — 7
One of England’s more experienced players despite being just 19, the Northampton Saints forward made his mark with an excellent lineout steal before his game was cut short by a head injury assessment after 25 minutes.
6 Tate Williams — 7
Williams made an encouraging impact, showing his work rate early with a turnover and a secure lineout take. His determination was rewarded later in the match as he finished off a pick-and-go with real desire to power over the line.
At just 19 years old, he showed good awareness and physicality throughout, particularly at the ruck.
7 Seb Kelly — 3
Kelly made a strong impact early on, winning a penalty with a powerful carry.
However, his performance unravelled after 32 minutes when he was shown a permanent red card for a needless headbutt on Luan Giliomee while on the floor, a costly lapse in discipline from the Sale Sharks youngster.
Still a bright talent who played well aside from that, but unfortunately the moment of madness was the turning point of the match.
8 Connor Treacy — 8
England’s captain led from the front with a big carry in the build-up to the opening try and was a constant presence throughout the first half, making 13 carries.
The 20-year-old Bath forward added one more after the break before being replaced on 52 minutes, finishing with an impressive 14 carries.
Replacements
16 Jerold Gorleku — 7
17 Oliver Spencer — 6
18 Sonny Tonga’uiha — 6
19 Patrick Hogg — 7
20 George Marsh — 6
21 Jonny Weimann — 7
22 Finn Keylock — 7
23 Fin Cunnison — 6
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