Saints star Lawes hails England’s composure

The Red Rose battled back from 13-6 down to ensure victory in the first of three November internationals.

Tries from Chris Robshaw and Owen Farrell proved to be the undoing of the Wallabies, giving England something to build on ahead of games against Argentina and New Zealand.

And Saints star Lawes, who played the full 80 minutes at five and had a crucial role in calling the lineouts, feels England’s calmness was the deciding factor.

“It was a tough game,” said the lock. “To go into half-time losing and then to come back, we pulled it back brilliantly and to hold on to the lead was perfect. We could easily have lost that game.

“It was all about composure. We rallied really well at half-time, came out with a game plan and that’s what worked and why we won.”

Lawes was part of a youthful England squad, which is building towards the 2015 home World Cup.

And the 24-year-old believes victories such as the one garnered on Saturday will be vital to the nation’s development.

“It was a brilliant performance all round,” he said. “We’ve got a really young squad which means we can gain experience together.

“Wins like this are crucial and it’s a brilliant game to have under your belt.”