Ashton, called up in place of the injured Tommy Makinson, scored both of the hosts’ tries as they built a 12-0 interval lead.
The series concludes at Headingley next Saturday. Here’s how the England players rated.
1. Full-back: Jack Welsby
Jack Welsby: Didn't do anything wrong, but had a quiet game by his standards 6. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
2. Wing: Matty Ashton
Ashton: Scored England's opening two tries either side of a terrific tackle to prevent Tonga scoring 7. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
3. Centre: Harry Newman
Newman: Nice work with the final pass for the opening try, looked for work but no chances to score himself 6. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
4. Centre: Toby King
Didn't do anything wrong, but not a massive contribution 6. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
5. Wing: Tom Johnstone
Bombed an easy chance at the start of the second half, but made a brilliant try-saving tackle soon afterwards 6. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
6. Stand-off: Mikey Lewis
Lewis: Made a couple of errors, but one nice run and put the kick in for Ashton's second try 6. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com