Chris Ashton became the first player in RBS 6 Nations history to score four tries in a game as he spearheaded England’s 59-13 triumph over Italy at Twickenham Stadium.
The Northampton Saints flyer struck in the second, 24th, 53rd and 75th minutes to write hi names into the records books not just once, but twice. As well as taking the record for most tries in a match, he reached six for the championship.
That allowed him to join Will Greenwood and Shane Williams as joint owners of the RBS 6 Nations record for the most tries in a single championship – and he still has three more games to go!
Ashton has now scored nine tries in nine appearances for England and his four tries followed on from his brace in the opening day victory over Wales in Cardiff. England, who are chasing their first RBS 6 Nations title and Grand Slam since 2003, ran in eight tries to move to the top of the table.
All eight tries were converted by Toby Flood, who ended with 13 points, and his replacement Jonny Wilkinson, who ended with six. His three conversions took him to 1187 international points for England and the British & Irish Lions, one short of Dan Carter's current world record mark.
