At Blackheath on Saturday afternoon, the initial match, according to Rugby Union Rules, between England and Wales was decided in the presence of a large number of football enthusiasts and their friends. The weather, although dull, was by no means unfavourable, and the ground of the Blackheath Football Club proved in excellent condition; but the game was one of very disappointing character on account of its one-sidedness.
At every point the superiority of England displayed itself in marked manner. Indeed, to use a sporting phrase, they may be said to have had a walkover.
In all twelve tries (Burton and Fassell four each, and Taylor, Hunt, Fernades and Twynan one each) were obtained.
From seven of these were placed by Stokes, and as Hunt succeeded in dropping a goal, England retired winners by eight goals and five tries to nothing.
From the Daily News, 21-02-1881
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