Danny Cipriani stars as England Saxons defeat South Africa A

South Africa A 24 - 32 England Saxons, Bloemfontein

England Saxons have registered a 1-0 lead in the series against South Africa A after defeating the Emerging Springboks 32-24 in the opening game in Bloemfontein.

The Saxons looked in complete control at half-time having a lead of 22-3. South Africa A came back hard in the second half adding 21 points but eventually succumbed to an eight-point defeat.

Prop Alec Hepburn (15'), wing Semesa Rokoduguni (29') and scrum-half Dan Robson (32') were the try scorers for England Saxons in the first-half while centre Ollie Devoto (77') scored a try at the closing stage.

Cipriani, who was overlooked in the England senior squad for the Australian tour contributed with 12 points which includes three conversions and two penalties.

For South Africa A, replacement Francois Brummer scored a try (49') and added three conversions while Piet van Zyl (63') and Sikhumbuzo Notshe (70') were the other try scorers.

The second and the final game of the series is scheduled on 17th June at the Outeniqua Park in George.