The Baa-Baas never looked likely to lose despite two tries from the impressive Paul Sackey and further efforts from Ayoola Erinle, James Forrester and Pat Sanderson.

Wendell Sailor, Bruce Reihana and Brent Russell scored two each for the visitors, while Carlos Spencer and Trevor Halstead also touched down for the invitational side.

The defeat was not ideal preparation for Englands Churchill Cup tour this summer, but Lydon believes his players will benefit from the experience.

''The experience is vital, one of the most pleasing things is the disappointment of the players in the dressing room,'' Lydon said.

''They were disappointed they gave away tries when we had the ball. They had world-class players against them but they gave them opportunities.

''But there are a lot of positives. Preparation time is vital and you dont often get the chance to play world-class opposition before any tournament.

''If you give world-class players time, space and opportunities then they will take them. That is a lesson they will have to learn and they will have to correct it.

England could not contest scrums after injuries to their props Micky Ward (ankle) and Mike Worsley (back spasms), although the extent of the damage is unclear.

''The people that came on did very well and put a marker in for Canada, Lydon added.

Sackeys performance was the most eye-catching for the hosts, with Lydon adding: He has enthusiasm for the game and the ability to score tries. He scored the tries and did very well.

Sanderson, who was skipper for the day and added a try at the death to reduce arrears, added: To some extent we made them look good in the way we defended, but we can sort that out come the Churchill Cup.

Barbarians coach Bob Dwyer believes his sides performance showed how strong the invitational side still are.

He said: This must rank as the most difficult year weve had to put a team together.

Its a credit to the club they were able to put the team out on the pitch they did. Most British players are on the Lions tour.

England are going to Canada and Ireland are going to Japan, even allowing for that - and the Super 12 final and the French championship still on - it means the Barbarians future is unlimited.