Following England's disappointing loss to Scotland, Andy Goode calls for the dropping of several senior players to pave the way for the next generation.
RUCK’s 2024 Guinness Six Nations content
In a historic showdown, Duhan van der Merwe etched his name in Scottish rugby history by becoming the first player to clinch a Calcutta Cup hat-trick.
As the hosts secured their fourth consecutive Six Nations victory over England at Murrayfield, the dynamic winger showcased his prowess once again.
Van der Merwe, who stunned with two sensational tries at Twickenham last year, outdid himself this time, netting three crucial scores in Scotland's 30-21 triumph.
Goode wrote on X: "Big mindset shift needed for England, some players and coaches aren’t aligned with how the game is and should be played, Ireland are the northern hemisphere barometer.
"England are miles behind but have players to evolve, the problem is the mindset and coaching, too risk adverse.
"There’s a fair few payers that Steve Borthwick needs to move on if we are going to evolve. We’ve been bang average at best since the 2019 World Cup semi final, I actually don’t think Borthwick and some of his assistant coaches should stay,"
ANDY GOODE WANTS FOUR STARS DROPPED
#1. Joe Marler
RUCK rating vs Scotland 6/10:Upped the scrummaging offensive, and reminded the Six Nations as to why he is one of the world's best up front.
Joe Marler of England during the Six Nations Match between England and Wales at Twickenham, London on 10 February 2024 (Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK)
#3. George Ford
RUCK rating vs Scotland 7/10: "Neatly pulled the strings with a great pass to Daly, in what led to the assist to Furbank. Stripped the ball of van Der merwe, in a rare miss-step for the wing. Slotted a sublime drop goal, and did his best to keep his side in the contest. Withdrawn earlier than expected as Fin Smith was introduced."
#2. Elliot Daly
RUCK rating vs Scotland 7/10: "Provided the assist to George Furbank's try, an excellent line reading when bringing in the attacking options. Daly presented top quality kicking, as he cleared his lines every time it threatened the left flank. Overshadowed by van der Merwe, and Feyi-Waboso's immediate impact off the bench."
#4. Dan Cole
RUCK rating vs Scotland 7/10: "The veteran worked his socks off and implied the tricks of the trade to win penalties in the scrum. Amongst the more vocal members of the England pack following a penalty, and received a talking too from the referee; ‘Shout for a decision like that and I’ll reverse it’."
