MATTY Ashton enjoyed a dream afternoon to announce himself into England’s Test series against Tonga in fine style.
The Warrington Wolves winger scored both of the home side’s tries as they saw off their tourists 14-4 at Huddersfield's John Smith's Stadium to clinch a series victory.
Ashton, who was The Wire’s leading scorer in 2023 with 20 tries in all competitions, was brought into the starting line-up in place of the injured Tommy Makinson and vindicated head coach Shaun Wane’s faith just seven minutes in as he slid over for his first senior England try, finishing off a fine right-edge handling move.
He then produced a fine try-saving tackle to prevent Tolutau Koula from crossing in the corner before notching his second try by winning the race to touch down Mikey Lewis’ kick, meaning England went in at the break with a 12-0 advantage.
England’s only points after the break came via a Harry Smith penalty as Kuola scored to narrow the gap and keep Tonga alive, but Wane’s men came out on top to claim an unassailable 2-0 series lead with just the finale at Headingley next week to play.
"I’m absolutely buzzing to be honest," Ashton said post-match in speaking to BBC Sport.
"It was a tough grind at the end there and we were blowing a bit towards the back end but we dug in deep.
"Conditions weren’t great but I’m living the dream. This is what it means to me, so I’m buzzing.
"That’s what I’m there to do – I could have had a couple more and I made a couple of errors, but I’m happy to get the two tries and the win. I’m honestly over the moon.
"They were some of the biggest players I’ve come up against and it was a tough grind, but I’m really proud of myself."
Ashton’s Wire teammates Daryl Clark and Toby King both started the game once again, with Danny Walker coming off the bench to finish the game.
Wire half-back and England captain George Williams will be available to return for the third Test next week having completed his two-match ban.
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