England vs Tonga: Five things we learned from Rugby World Cup fixture in Sapporo

Eddie Jones’ side earned an all-important bonus point as Tonga were overcome 35-3 in Sapporo

England are underway in the 2019 Rugby World Cup.

Eddie Jones' side earned an all-important bonus point as Tonga were overcome 35-3 in Sapporo.

Manu Tuilagi crossed twice in the first-half before front rowers Jamie George and Luke Cowan-Dickie got in on the act to secure victory.

While Jones will undoubtedly be happy with his side's defence their remains work to do in attack after a sloppy outing with ball in hand.

Here are five things we learned:

1. Discipline is key as ever

Four penalties were given away to Tonga compared to one to England in the first half.

Although the infractions only resulted in three points to the Tongans, if England make the same mistakes when facing other sides later in the competition they may be faced with a different result.

2. Use intelligence when faced with physicality

Tonga are known for their physicality, demonstrated best in this match by Anthony Watson’s collision with Sione Kalamafoni. However, England overcame the Tongans' physical play with intelligence, such as when big ball carriers were used to draw in the defence.

If they continue to use brains with the brawn, success will continue.

3. Stick to structures

England stuck to structures of play throughout the game, such as their use of the dangerous Manu Tuilagi to break the gain line which in turn led to quick ball and the exploitation of space around him.

If they are to succeed in Japan they must continue to not lose their heads leading them to lose their structure.

Tuilagi was excellent (Getty Images)

4. Work on ball handling

Messy ball handling did not hurt them here but repeat these sorts of mistakes against better sides and they will pay.

This one should've been in the books far earlier than it was with Jones surely less than pleased with a lack of accuracy.

5. Use free space

Space and the exploitation of it is going to be key in this tournament. Ireland earlier showed the importance of being clinical, as did tournament favourites New Zealand against South Africa on Saturday.

England must rise to that level and make the most of their opportunities as others will not be as accommodating as Tonga.

Work to do for sure.