England player ratings vs Fiji: Alex Mitchell the only positive as George Ford stifled by team’s own tactics

If there were any positives from England losing to Fiji in their final game before the Rugby World Cup, it was in Alex Mitchell’s performance.

The scrum-half battled valiantly to create a spark in a lifeless Red Rose attack that led early before crumbling in a 33-20 defeat.

Nick Purewal was at Twickenham to rate and slate the England players...

Freddie Stewart – 3

Uncharacteristically dropped two high balls, and under little pressure.

Max Malins – 2

Flattened by Semi Radradra and was quiet throughout.

Ollie Lawrence – 3

Two physical breaks aside, this was a difficult outing for the Bath man.

Manu Tuilagi – 3

Early prowess fell away as the Samoa-born centre faded badly.

Jonny May – 4

Took his try well and kept busy, but could not keep England in it.

George Ford – 3

Can pilot a team but does not have the licence to attack the way he wants.

Alex Mitchell – 4

The only positive for England. If he does not start against Argentina it will be criminal.

Ellis Genge – 2

Unable to set the aggressive tone the way he has in the past.

Theo Dan – 2

Such a talented player but all that melts away for players with England.

Dan Cole – 2

One of England’s finest servants, but at 36 England should have moved on by now.

Maro Itoje – 2

All the areas where he can excel, he did not even produce par.

Ollie Chessum – 3

Still finding his feet after injury but England desperately need him at full tilt.

Courtney Lawes – 3

Deserved so much better than this on his 100th cap.

Jack Willis – 2

Bested at the breakdown, which should be his area of expertise.

Ben Earl – 2

No carrying threat, and could not dominate at the ruck.

Replacements:

Joe Marler (for Genge, 50) – 2

England fell apart despite the replacements.

Will Stuart (for Cole, 69) – 2

Another who could not make any difference.

David Ribbans (for Chessum, 69) – 2

No power from the hulking lock.

Lewis Ludlam (for Willis, 56) – 3

As earnest as ever but no ultimate positive impact.

Danny Care (for Mitchell, 69) – 2

Key knock-on after Marchant try had almost brought England back into it ultimately consigned the hosts to defeat.

Joe Marchant (for Lawrence, 52) – 3

Took his try well and looks sharp but could struggle to fit into the starting XV.

Marcus Smith (for Steward, 52) – 3

Nipped in for a score and offers an expansive edge.