Head coach Steve Borthwick is under serious pressure after England suffered a first ever defeat against Fiji at Twickenham today.
In fluctuating weather conditions, the Pacific Islanders managed to secure three tries during the second half, overturning their halftime disadvantage.
England rekindled their hopes in the closing moments, as Joe Marchant’s try and George Ford’s successful conversion brought them within a single point.
However, Simione Kuruvoli seized the opportunity, capitalizing on Selestino Ravutaumada’s exceptional offload, ultimately clinching the victory.
One fan wrote: “Surely Borthwick can’t see out his contract? Surely even HQ can see just how bad this is.”
A second commented: “I’m sorry even though Fiji are massively improved if England lose this Borthwick cannot survive or at least Sinfield cannot over 20 tries conceded in 6 games that is a shocking defence.:
Another said: “I don’t care if there’s a World Cup in 2 weeks, we need to sack Steve Borthwick now. Totally out of his depth.
A fourth added: “Whole RFU leadership and Borthwick should resign today. Utter embarrassing. England’s worst defeat ever.”
“Said it in feb Borthwick is awful. Way out of his depth. Glad to see the stupid decision is biting us. Fucking abysmal. We finish 2nd in the group at best and our first knock out game,” wrote a fifth.
Another added: “RFU Hang your heads in shame you are robbing England fans of well earned cash ,Sack Borthwick now And your board now where his Bill Beaumont shame on you.”
A seventh tweeted: “hat’s enough now, Borthwick needs to go now….”
Odds have dramatically shortened on the favourite to replace Steve Borthwick as England head coach
4. Rob Baxter – 12/1
Rob Baxter, who guided the Devon-based club from the Championship to European champions in 10 years has done this largely with a core of players that have come through the academy at Exeter.
With this season’s club performance not at the level of previous years, it may be time for him to move on and into the Test game in the near futuree.
Although Baxter joined the England coaching team for the summer tour to Argentina and Uruguay in March 2013, he has no experience outside of Exeter. “I would be happy to have a chat about what the role is, how they see it working and what their plans and ambitions are,” Baxter said of the England job back in December.
“Unless you know what it is, it’s hard to say yes or no to anything. At the same time, I’m not looking for another job! I’m very happy here,” he added.