England Saxons handle USA Eagles 56-17 in Churchill Cup

Churchill Cup: England handles US rugby team

GLENDALE, Colo. — For a moment, the U.S. rugby team had all it could ask for against England — the lead.

The Eagles scored a surprising try to take an early lead over the Saxons during pool play at the Churchill Cup on Sunday. But England responded and never let up, crushing a tired U.S. team 56-17.

The defending Churchill Cup champs displayed crisp ball movement and had the Eagles on their heels after the opening 10 minutes. A few extra days of rest for the Saxons and four U.S. turnovers helped out as well.

England racked up eight tries in the win and held the Eagles scoreless for nearly 47 minutes.

England plays for the Churchill Cup championship next Sunday in Commerce City, Colo.