ENGLAND SEVENS got off to the best possible start by beating hosts Hong Kong 45-0 in their opening match of the Cathay Pacific/Credit Suisse Hong Kong Sevens (26-28 March).

England scored seven tries with Oliver Lindsay-Hague (Harlequins) and Nick Royle (Fylde) scoring two apiece whilst Christian Wade (London Wasps) showed his blistering pace with an 80 metre charge to the line.

The forwards were clinical, with James Rodwell intercepting a pass for Wade's try and then crossing the line from the restart after receiving Chris Brightwell's (Bedford) inside pass and Tom Powell (Cambridge) added his own effort after the break.

Ben Gollings slotted three first half conversions and Bristol's Mat Turner, who took over the kicking duties at half time, scored two.

Lindsay Hague, who has been on loan at Rosslyn Park this season, said, "It's great to be here and I'm really happy I scored two tries. I was really nervous running out in front of such a big crowd but once the match got going the nerves went. I can't wait for tomorrow and we are feeling confident going into day two."

Tomorrow England face Japan at 2.10pm (local time) before taking on Wales at 6.34pm (local time).

England: Tom Powell (Cambridge), Chris Brightwell (Bedford), Christian Wade (London Wasps), James Rodwell (Moseley), Oliver Lindsay-Hague (Harlequins), Ben Gollings (capt, Gold Coast, Australia), Mat Turner (Bristol Rugby)