Fly-half George Ford was England’s saviour today, as he orchestrated a 19-17 comeback win over Wales at Twickenham Stadium.
England fought back after ill-discipline dropped them to 12 men. Ford stepped up to take the reigns for the match-winning penalty, after Owen Farrell was sent off.
Farrell could now be looking at a lengthy ban, which could see him out of action for the opening matches of the 2023 Rugby World Cup. England’s campaign begins on the 9th September against Argentina, with Farrell at risk of missing early pool stage action, after he has previously been sent to the RFU’s tackle school.
Fans were not impressed with Borthwick’s post match interview.
One fan wrote: “I hope I’m wrong, but he comes across as being as sharp as a rolling pin. He’s clearly a good coach, he’s won a premiership title. But that’s all he’s done as a head coach. In his first season as a head coach. He’s going to be up against seasoned coaches of huge experience.”
A second commented: “Phew, I’m glad Courtney was there to help him out!!”
Another said: “The most inspiring stuff you’ll ever see. I miss Eddie.”
“Says nothing of great interest. Didn’t think I’d miss Eddie,” wrote a fifth.
A sixth commented: “I’m trying to remain positive but I’m struggling to buy into Borthwick. Just very vanilla?”
Who could replace Steve Borthwick at Twickenham?
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.