England Saxons coach Stuart Lancaster congratulated Ireland A on a "deserved" Churchill Cup success after admitting his side were simply outclassed in Denver.

The Irish were irrepressible in the searing heat as they turned in a confident six-try performance to win 49-22.

"Our core skills were not good enough and if they're not you lose the physical battle and lose the game of rugby," he said on Sky Sports.

"As the first half wore on I could see we were beginning to lose the physical battle.

"I made some subs but it was too little too late and they deserved to win.

"I thought they won all the collisions and what we've got to learn is to make sure you perform at this level because you don't get many chances.

"I think the England lads have worked hard for last three weeks. The desire was there but unfortunately the execution wasn't."