Jamie George produced a man-of-the-match showing for Saracens as they continued their juggernaut start to the season.
George scored the pivotal late try to secure victory for Mark McCall’s men at Cardiff Arms Park against the Blues and keep the men in black top of their pool.
George – who started England’s last game of the autumn against Australia – was at the forefront all match long as they remain perfect in Europe and the Gallagher Premiership.
And on this evidence, he will take some shifting from England’s No.2 jersey ahead of the 2019 Guinness Six Nations.
George barged over at the back of a rolling maul but also contributed the key turnover in the second half when Saracens were under pressure and down to 14 men.
He made 12 tackles, completed 16 successful lineouts and was only taken off in the 77th minute when the match was safe.
In addition to George, Eddie Jones will also have been pleased by Mako Vunipola’s continued return to full fitness.
Like George, the prop played 77 minutes and made 13 tackles while lock George Kruis – in his first start back since England’s narrow win over South Africa – also impressed.
Sean Maitland continued his recent fine form with the first try for Saracens and will take some stopping in next year’s Championship for Scotland.
Owen Farrell’s battle with Gareth Anscombe at No.10 was also eye-catching – a potential glimpse of things to come next year when England face Wales.
Meanwhile over in Scotland, Adam Hastings pulled the strings in tough conditions as Glasgow Warriors emerged victorious against Lyon 21-10.
Hastings – who started at fly-half in Scotland’s final game of the autumn against Argentina – added 11 points from the kicking tee in their narrow win having set up the first try inside a minute.
