England rugby star Billy Vunipola unaware of potential importance of crucial fourth try

  • Billy Vunipola didn't know that bonus points counted in the World Cup 
  • The Saracens No 8 scored England's vital fourth try against Fiji
  • It earned five points for a less-than-convincing victory in the Pool A game

Billy Vunipola was unaware of the potential importance of his bonus-point clinching try in England's 35-11 World Cup-opening victory over Fiji.

The Saracens number eight came off the bench and barged over for England's fourth try to earn five points for a less-than-convincing victory in a tight Pool A, which includes Wales and Australia.

'To be truthfully honest with you, I didn't know that bonus points counted in the World Cup,' Vunipola said.

Saracens No 8 Billy Vunipola scored England's vital fourth try against Fiji in the Rugby World Cup opener

Saracens No 8 Billy Vunipola scored England's vital fourth try against Fiji in the Rugby World Cup opener

The 22-year-old substitute, brother to fellow England man Mako, didn't know bonus points counted in the RWC

The 22-year-old substitute, brother to fellow England man Mako, didn't know bonus points counted in the RWC

'I was just more excited that I'd scored a try. It's always good to get over for your country.


'I'm just happy we won and we move on to the next game.'

The build-up is over and England have just a week to improve on their display before Wales visit Twickenham.

There was relief and satisfaction among the ranks.

'I don't think you feel the nerves and tension until you step out on the field and all the expectation comes crashing back down on you,' Vunipola added.

'It's a home World Cup, first game up against a team with nothing to lose. It was tough, very nervy, but it's very satisfying to come away with a win.' 

Vunipola said: 'I was just more excited that I'd scored a try. It's always good to get over for your country'

Vunipola said: 'I was just more excited that I'd scored a try. It's always good to get over for your country'

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England rugby star Billy Vunipola unaware of potential importance of crucial fourth try

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