England’s performance against Italy was not a showstopper, but it was a solid start to their Six Nations campaign. The inclusion of five new players on the field resulted in some impressive individual displays in their 27-24 victory.
Ethan Roots and Tommy Freeman stood out as players with the qualities of experienced international athletes. Freeman’s tactical movements and excellent line for Elliot Daly’s try showcased his natural talent, while Roots impressed with his clever footwork and ability to exploit gaps in the opposition’s defence. Their contributions, along with others, infused dynamism into the England back-row.
The introduction of Chandler Cunningham-South in the second half added a new dimension to England’s game. With his inclusion, as well as the return of Tom Curry and the versatile Ben Earl, England now boasts a mobile and athletic back-row line-up.
On the other hand, the final 15 minutes of the game against Italy raised some doubts. England’s tactics and decision-making during this period were questioned. The approach of slowing the game down and relying heavily on kicking allowed Italy to make a comeback. It was observed that England’s play seemed to strictly adhere to the pre-determined game plan, overlooking the context and dynamics of the game itself.
Looking ahead to their next fixture against Wales, England will need to build on their strengths and learn from the lapses in their defence. Maintaining a balance between exploiting the opponents’ weaknesses and a disciplined game plan will be vital.
With the support of the home crowd at Twickenham and the emergence of exciting new talent, England has an opportunity to elevate their game. The upcoming match against Wales will present a similar challenge, albeit with a different context. The need for physicality and an aggressive mindset from the outset will be crucial for England to assert their dominance.
Furthermore, the recent performance of Ireland against France serves as a reminder of the tough competition in the Six Nations. The level of skill and preparation showcased by Ireland indicates that they are currently a step ahead of the rest. As the tournament progresses, unforeseen factors such as injuries, red cards, and controversies are likely to further shape the narrative.
In conclusion, while England’s victory over Italy may not have been flawless, it serves as a solid foundation for what is to come. With the promise of improvement and the potential of their new players, the upcoming matches in the Six Nations are set to be enthralling.
The perspective shared in this article was provided by former England rugby player Matt Dawson during an interview with BBC Sport’s Mantej Mann.