Flying Fijians go down fighting

England has beaten the Flying Fijians 35 11 in the opening match of the Rugby World Cup.

Flying Fijians captain Akapusi Qera said they will now shift their focus to Australia.

England captain Chris Robshaw said it was a tough game.

George Ford kicked a penalty in the opening minutes before a penalty try was awarded to England after a rolling maul.

Nikola Matawalu was also yellow carded after infringing in the rolling maul. 

England extended their lead in the 21st minute after fullback Mike Brown crossed over for a try.

Half back Nikola Matawalu who returned from the sin bin looked to have scored a contender for try of the tournament a few minutes later but replays showed he dropped the ball on the line.

A few seconds later Fiji hit back with a try to wing Nemani Nadolo after a cross kick from Ben Volavola.

England extended their lead in the 31st minute after George Ford kicked a penalty.  

Fiji was also awarded a penalty a few minutes later and Nemani Nadolo stepped up and converted the penalty as Fiji trailed 18 8 in the first half.

Fiji closed the gap in the 63rd minute after Ben Volavola kicked a penalty as the scores read 18-11.

Replacement fly half Owen Farrell kicked a penalty a few seconds later as England extended their lead to 21-11.

England further increased their lead to 28-11 after Mike Brown scored a try in the 71st minute with Owen Farrell converting the try. 

England had the last say as Billy Vunipola crashed over for a converted try.

Fiji will now meet Australia next Thursday at 3.45am.

Meanwhile Tonga will play Georgia at 11 tonight.

Still on the RWC

ITV commentator Nick Mullins has drawn the anger of fans around the world after a comment he made during this morning's Rugby World Cup opener between England and Fiji.

Referring to Fiji's supporters watching back in the Pacific Islands, Mullins said: "They'll be back in Fiji around one television hoping the generator doesn't fail them."

Many took to social media to express their disappointment as soon as the comment was made. 

Mullins responded to at least 43 posts sent to his Twitter account, but did not acknowledge the controversial comment.