JASON Robinson returned to Edgeley Park last night to visit his former team-mates and to watch one of England's first opponents in the World Cup finals, which kick off in just a fortnight's time.

And he will have plenty of warnings for his England pals after watching the visitors beat Sale convincingly in a tough but entertaining encounter watched by 7,000.

Despite the defeat, Sale will have been pleased to see Charlie Hodgson back in action after injury, as well as a powerful display from the pack against world-class opposition.

There was also a return for Welshman Nathan Bonner-Evans, and a first chance for the Sale fans to see South African Rudi Keil in action for his new club.

The Samoans finally earned their reward after 13 minutes with a try for second row Kane Thompson, which Gavin William converted.

Sale's pack was working hard with prop Lionel Faure and skipper Dean Schofield in the thick of it and Hodgson moving the ball well but there was no way through a rock-solid defence.

Alesana Tuilagi broke Sale hearts at the Millennium Stadium in the EDF Energy Cup semi-finals last year and did it again for Samoa on the half hour. Semo Sititi made it three tries to nil before the break with a try under the posts which William again converted.

Tuilagi proved just how dangerous he can be when he bulldozed his way over the Sale line once again six minutes into the second half.

Sharks plugged away, and they broke their duck with a penalty try that Hodgson converted.

Ben Foden sparked Sale into action with a stunning break with 10 minutes left, but again the Samoan defence was equal to the task.