As temperatures dip, the perceived strength of the English rugby team ascends, effectively countering any winter disappointments. Such was the enormity of their triumph over the All Blacks. It generates jubilation, imparts significance, and bestows prestige. A substantial amount of it. Why rely on a league standings to quantify the value of a victory? It is more rewarding to assess the situation independently. Did we genuinely anticipate this level of performance from England? Even if we privately doubted the All Blacks’ current form, perceiving them as less formidable than their legendary reputation suggests? Nevertheless, England benefits immensely. A defeat would have dissipated the celebratory atmosphere into the dreary November ambiance, dismissed as another instance of exaggerated English exuberance, typical media overstatement. Nine consecutive victories (now ten) were commendable. However, England required a legitimate test, similar to the challenge faced by Clive Woodward’s team years prior. Overcoming New Zealand propels Steve Borthwick’s team closer to that pinnacle. Their starting point is now considerably behind them.
The inclusion of South Africa on their schedule would have provided a more accurate assessment of England’s position. As it stands, England confronts a crucial challenge against Argentina on Sunday. Success in a World Cup hinges on consistent high-level performance each weekend during the knockout phase. A strong quarter-final showing followed by a lackluster performance seven days later results in failure. Los Pumas present a formidable challenge. A singular English indulgence (in victory) does not guarantee ultimate success.
England has thrust itself into contention for the World Cup, owing to both the manner and substance of their victory. The 2012 triumph was characterized by fluidity and elegance. This recent win was more tenacious, calculated, and ultimately more significant due to its nature. While the next World Cup in Australia is two years away, one cannot secure the Webb Ellis trophy in 2025. However, a significant setback could jeopardize their prospects. This encounter presented a pivotal opportunity. England needed to prevail – for self-assurance, future respect, and the overall morale at Twickenham.
The Springboks derive strength from a profound unity and national identity, guiding them through challenging situations. Regardless of the “Bomb Squad” concept, their frequent red cards have effectively transformed rugby into a game played with 14 individuals. England is progressing along a similar path, albeit not yet reaching that level of unwavering collective belief. That journey has been shortened considerably. Twickenham now stands firmly behind them, fully supporting Borthwick’s leadership.
New Zealand served as a benchmark, despite not being a particularly outstanding team. Only two players – Ardie Savea and Will Jordan – would be seriously considered for selection in the All Black team that secured back-to-back World Cup victories a decade ago.
New Zealand served as a benchmark, despite not being a particularly outstanding team. Only two players – Ardie Savea and Will Jordan – would be seriously considered for selection in the All Black team that secured back-to-back World Cup victories a decade ago. This is a relevant consideration when evaluating the significance of England’s achievement. However, it is just one factor. Despite New Zealand’s hesitancy, instability, and fatigue, they still needed to be defeated on the scoreboard. England accomplished this decisively. There were no lucky breaks, no ambiguities, just a comprehensive victory. Therefore, akin to how Martin Johnson’s team benefited from a series of victories against prominent Southern Hemisphere teams, notably during the tour games in the summer of 2003, this event should be regarded as a defining moment for Borthwick’s squad.
A year prior, they were resorting to the tiresome cliché of emphasizing performance. They were executing effectively and consistently challenging the All Blacks. It was all misleading and self-serving, indicative of a team grasping at straws. Rugby does not award points for style. The outcome is either victory, defeat, or enduring the frustration of a draw. England now possesses this experience, a long-awaited revision to the historical record, now recognizing their ninth victory over the All Blacks.
That highlights England’s advancement, shifting from underachievers to closers. They achieved this through a blend of artistry and diligence, George Ford’s strategic drop-goals combined with the sustained power of the tight scrum, which was appropriately rewarded as the game progressed. There are line-out weaknesses that need rectification, but they are easily fixable. The same applies to the defensive vulnerabilities that led to New Zealand’s initial tries.
The POM squad might be excessively promoted, but it consistently delivers on significant occasions, from the improved performance of the front row to the impactful contributions of a Henry Pollock. Tom Curry provides unrelenting effort, while Pollock exhibits flair and drives action. Despite his social media presence, he is capable of substantial contributions. This is not accidental. He is conscious of all possibilities: securing a loose ball from a Tom Roebuck tap-down for a try against Australia and executing well-judged hack-on kicks leading to England’s decisive try on Saturday. Similar to South Africa, the bench is no longer an afterthought or comprised of inferior replacements.
England’s resources are abundant, with further additions expected. But for the first time since Borthwick assumed leadership, they project stability and a distinct sense of purpose. They are also starting to possess several options for selection.
England’s resources are abundant, with further additions expected. But for the first time since Borthwick assumed leadership, they project stability and a distinct sense of purpose. They are also starting to possess several options for selection, though not to the depth of South Africa’s. If a key player like Sam Underhill is unavailable, there are numerous replacements ready to step in. The centre partnership also seems to be solidifying, with Fraser Dingwall and Ollie Lawrence collaborating effectively. A sense of permanence is beginning to emerge. Ollie Lawrence is now as crucial to England’s prospects as any centre three-quarter player in recent history. The idea of transitioning Tommy Freeman to centre still has potential, but Lawrence must be involved. Dingwall’s progress is also notable, with the Northampton centre playing a subtle yet influential role, mirroring his club contributions. He is a promising talent.
There remain areas for improvement, which is why the Argentina match serves as an excellent conclusion to this autumn series. With home advantage and buoyed by their resounding success, England should win. This is the perceived expectation. Los Pumas will leverage that to their advantage. This represents the next challenge for England, living up to their newfound status, as New Zealand once did.
Borthwick has much to consider. The back three is constantly changing, due to injuries, the return of players like Elliot Daly and George Furbank, and selection decisions. Freddie Steward has had some bad luck. It appeared to suit his style: overcast skies, drizzle, and a kick-chase strategy. Instead, he only lasted the first quarter, and his unsuccessful HIA paved the way for Marcus Smith. The Harlequin is not naturally an international full-back, yet he enhanced England’s attack with his skill and intuition. That much is evident. England requires that try-creating, try-scoring ability in the back line. South Africa possesses it, as does New Zealand. Marcus Smith is not the complete solution. Someone needs to elevate their game for England.
Finally, regarding the key player, Ford, the No 10 jersey is his to relinquish. This is difficult for Fin Smith who possesses all the requisite skills, as does Marcus Smith. However, Ford has patiently served his time, focused solely on the task at hand. If any player deserves to be at the forefront, it is him, the pivotal figure in this important English moment. In many ways, he embodies Borthwick’s England – modest, diligent, exceptionally knowledgeable in rugby, and a winner to the very end.
