England out-scored Wales by two tries to one - an impressive statistic given the recent fortunes of the two sides - but were ultimately let down by a lack of discipline.

England gifted Wales 18 points in penalties and Leigh Halfpenny scored a breakaway try while Andy Goode was in the sin-bin early in the second half.

Nevertheless, Borthwick has taken more confidence from England’s all-round performance in defeat to Wales than he did from the laboured win over Italy. England now have two weeks to prepare for Ireland at Croke Park.

Borthwick said: “We are making strides forward. We are a team focused on improvement and we know if we keep improving the results will come. We were tested and we showed a huge amount of courage and endeavour. We came out to play and we moved the ball very dangerously. We fell short, but there are massive positives to take from it.

“I thought some of the performances were magnificent in the way the boys stuck together.

“I think two tries to one away from home is a magnificent effort. We looked very dangerous all match, but ultimately we lost the game.”