Smith pleased with Welsh test

England coach Tony Smith says the 48-12 win over Wales proved a useful test for his side in the run up to the Gillette Four Nations.

Smith believes that a closer game was beneficial, especially for players who have not played since before the engage Super League play-offs.

England begin their Four Nations campaign against France on Friday at Doncaster’s Keepmoat Stadium.

“We’ll get a lot out of that. I am pleased with the hit-out,” said Smith.

“It is no good when the scoreline goes one way and there is a total blowout for one team: you don’t learn as much about your defensive structure.”

“Some of our skills were a little off at times, as was some of our decision-making. But that’s understandable when there are guys there who hadn’t played for a while.

“I am pleased that we’ve been able to get some of the rustiness out and that we finished the game strongly. We scored some nice tries.”