WALES endured a losing start to their World Cup warm-up campaign against England at Twickenham, though they pushed their host all the way in a 23-19 defeat.

Wales teenager George North scored the first try of the contest but the hosts soon took control due to James Haskell's score and the boot of Jonny Wilkinson.

Manu Tuilagi increased the lead as he powered over for as try on his Test debut but Shane Williams sneaked over in the corner in response as the visitors refused to lie down.

A late spell of pressure then yielded another try for North but England, who will be anxiously waiting for injury news on skipper Lewis Moody, managed to hang on to complete the win.

After the game Wales coach Warren Gatland confirmed full-back Morgan Stoddart suffered a suspected broken leg.

Stoddart was carried off on a stretcher early in the second half and now looks certain to miss the World Cup.

Gatland said: "It looks like a bad break, it's a shame for him."

England coach Martin Johnson also had an injury to worry about after Lewis Moody limped out of the action with a knee problem.

"He's got a bit of a strain but hopefully he is ok," said Johnson. "You don't know about these things for 24 hours."