England lived up to its billing as the world's best rugby side as it broke through for its first ever win in Australia with a 25-14 win over the Wallabies in their Test at Telstra Dome.

The English hadn't won in AAustralia in 10 previous attempts but were emphatic victors as they dominated the world champion Wallabies in all departments to claim the Cook Cup for the fourth straight year.

With man of the match, skipper Martin Johnson, leading the charge, the English buried any notion that they play a boring brand of rugby as they ran in three brilliant tries in front of a full house of 54,868.

Australia's points came through a classy individual try by winger Wendell Sailor with three minutes left on the clock, while winger Joe Roff kicked three penalties.

England mixed up its game, making ground with its trademark rolling maul, in the tight through big men Johnson and No.8 Lawrence Dallaglio, or with five-eighth Jonny Wilkinson orchestrating moves to find dangerous wingers Jason Robinson and Ben Cohen, who scored their third try by scything through the middle of the Australian defence.

The Australians defended well and showed some innovation in attack, but too often were let down by poor ball control and turned the ball over to stall any attacking opportunities.

Their lineout also failed to fire, with hooker Jeremy Paul replaced by Brendan Cannon 12 minutes into the second half.

England's ball security, meanwhile, was outstanding as its first try, scored by centre Will Greenwood five minutes into the match came after the visitors maintained possession for 13 phases.

The Wallabies trailed 12-3 at halftime, and although the home side improved in the second half, they were still unable to break through England's defensive fortress.

Completing their misery, in-form lock Nathan Sharpe limped from the field five minutes into second half as the knee injury he suffered during the week appeared to flare.

Brought to you by AAP © 2024 AAP