A more rugby smart side might have made more of their numerical advantage but under-estimates the high-octane defensive effort reflects the work of Kevin Sinfield and the conditioning of Aled Walters. That it appeared to take the Curry red card for England to finally find their best version of themselves mattered little on the night in what was World Cup rugby at its best. Maro Itoje too grew into the contest and by the second half was at his marauding best, bringing back memories of England’s semi-final victory over New Zealand four years ago. If Ford took the plaudits there were stunning displays across the pitch, from Manu Tuilagi’s stand-in show as flanker, Ben Earl’s firecracking energy with ball in hand and in defence, captain Courtney Lawes’ courageous leadership and Alex Mitchell, on only his second start, relishing the moment. It is no exaggeration to say that, given the context, this was a performance that echoed some of England’s greatest acts of resistance, including the 13-man defeat of the All Blacks in Wellington in 2003. After a miserable year of disappointments, they at last have a reason to find their voices, and on the evidence of this performance, Borthwick’s side can look forward to topping Pool D and reaching the quarter-finals. Yet there was so much more to savour for the England fans, thousands of whom had missed the kick-off because of a log-jam at the stadium entrances. For the record, it was the first hat-trick of dropped goals by an England player since Jonny Wilkinson managed the feat in the World Cup semi-final victory over France in 2003.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |