Hampshire's Joe Marchant scored a try hat-trick as England Under 20s got their first win of the Six Nations with a comprehensive nine-try 61-0 win against Italy at The Brickfields in Plymouth last night.

 

Man of the match Marchant, formerly of Winchester RFC and now with Harlequins said: "It was pretty special to get three tries, but it was a real team effort today.

 

"We knew that the conditions would be tricky but we fronted up and put in a good performance. Italy were very tough and we've got a few bruised bodies, but it's great to get our first win of the campaign."

 

 

In front of over 3,000 fans, Marchant (pictured) also kicked a conversion.

 

Marchant's County team-mate Joe Batley, formerly of Gosport & Fareham RFC and now with Gloucester Rugby, played from the replacement's bench from the 52nd minute.

 

England Head Coach Jon Callard said: "We're really pleased with the performance from the lads, particularly against a physical and passionate Italian side. The response from last week was spot on and it puts us in a good place as we head into the fallow week.

 

"The fans at Plymouth were excellent – to get over three 3,000 in was a credit to the club and they made themselves heard. Ireland next up will be a huge test, especially in Dublin, but it's one we'll relish."