Ford pushed England into an early lead with two penalties with Munster's JJ Hanrahan getting one back for Ireland before Harlequins lock Charlie Matthews took advantage of a great run from Mako Vunipola to score the first try of the game.

Bristol prop, Vunipola, made a great break before offloading to front row partner Henry Thomas who withstood one challenge before passing to Matthews who went over in the corner, Ford missing the extras.

Matthews was then sent to the sin bin for a stamp and Mike Ruddock's side hit back with a try from Munster flanker Shane Buckley as they punished the seven-man English scrum, Hanrahan converting to make it 11-10.

Ford then added another penalty before a missed touch from Blane McIlroy gave England one last chance before half-time which Ryan Mills clinically took advantage of for his first try of the competition to put the visitors 21-10 up at the break.

England started the second half in the same way they finished the first with Matt Kvesic following up another Ford penalty by barging over after a good break from Bath scrum-half Chris Cook.

Hooker Mike Haywood then got in on the act burrowing over as Ireland struggled to live with the pace of their opponents, trailing 36-10.

Ireland, who were without several first choice players due to Magners League call-ups, fought back gamely with a second try from hooker David Doyle.

But England had the final word as Worcester winger Andy Short crossed and captain and No. 8 Alex Gray grabbed the last score to seal a comprehensive win.