Eddie Jones chose to attend The Rec on Saturday evening, rather than crossing the Irish Sea to visit the Aviva Stadium. That felt rather odd.

Defeats provide important reference points and England’s only loss of Jones’ tenure to date also arrived in Dublin. That day, back in March, the hosts’ muscular breakdown work and intuitive game management ended any hope of a second consecutive Grand Slam.

Victories for Ulster, Munster and Leinster over Premiership clubs in the third round of the Champions Cup group stage all seemed reminiscent of Ireland’s win. The provinces were all smarter and tougher around the tackle area.

Exeter Chiefs’ return fixture represented an opportunity for an English team to test those attributes - qualities that Jones knows the national team must improve - against a side full of internationals.

Plenty of Rob Baxter’s forwards stood up in a compelling contest. And one in particular, openside Matt Kvesic, demonstrated the dynamism and acumen that could bolster England during the Six Nations.

Clever from the kick-off

Matt Kvesic’s first contribution arrived within seconds of the kick-off. Jonathan Sexton aims a shallow strike in between Sam Simmonds and Olly Woodburn, giving Devin Toner a chance to challenge: