George Ford: Key role in Saxons' comeback

England Saxons erased a 10-point deficit in the second half as they beat Ireland Wolfhounds 14-10 at the Sportsground in Galway.

Kevin McLaughlin muscled over for a 10th minute try, with Paddy Jackson's right boot ensuring a 10-0 half-time lead for the hosts.

A Devin Toner-won lineout in the English 22 saw Mike Sherry maul up close to the line, and a well-timed pick and go saw flanker McLaughlin drive over from close range.

George Ford's 50th-minute penalty got the Saxons off the mark, and the 19-year-old fly-half went on to guide the visitors home backed by a stiffening wind.

He kicked another penalty as the pressure told on the Wolfhounds' defence, then played a part in the visitors' try.

Ford and man-of-the-match Graham Kitchener sparked the break that eventually led to Will Fraser's unconverted score in the right corner.

After a spell of patient build-up play the Saracens flanker did superbly well to ground the ball despite being tackled by Luke Fitzgerald.

A couple of crooked lineouts left the Wolfhounds frustrated and Ford, with the breeze behind him, made the game safe with an assured 75th-minute kick from near halfway.