Today, at Twickenham Stadium, England delivered their second RBS Six Nations victory in the same number of weeks as they dismissed the Italians by 47 points to 17. As expected the Azzurri proved to be a frustrating side to play against and England had to be patient before they could enjoy themselves out there on the beautiful Twickenham turf. Prior to the game I, and many other people, called for England to make a huge statement of intent and put a lot of points on the board and in my eyes they delivered the points and most, but not all of the statement.
Let’s focus on the positives first because there were some very bright ones and it would be doing one man a great disservice if I started anywhere else other than talking about him, Mr Jonathan Joseph. As Stuart said ‘it wasn’t ideal’ having to move JJ to the wing however the Bath man proved that he can make an impact on the game from any position on the field. JJ's his first try in particular highlighted his natural talent and sublime feet, however throughout he was electric. Joseph ignited the stage that he has been waiting so patiently to perform on and his fearless determination to show what he is made of is paying dividends for himself and for England. Overall in attack England played with purpose and their confidence led to inventive eyes up rugby, even without Mike Brown who usually is the source of so many meters and breaks.
The manner in which England patiently clawed themselves out of their slumber must be acknowledged and applauded. Today, a significant and unplanned reshuffle didn't de-rail Lancaster's side and in prior years it would have done. Robshaw and his men did what Lawrence Dallaglio calls the 'toughest thing in rugby' and that is to learn on the job, for when they needed to England upped their ball carrying intensity, increased their defensive physically and let loose. The pack always looked secure and comfortable; James Haskell and Chris Robshaw worked themselves into the ground and Billy Vunipola’s carried like a man possessed, taking any unsuspecting Italians along with him. Italy’s greatest threats are always up front and they were pacified by England’s collective power.
Yes, it wasn't a completely perfect performance, it had its flaws, chances were missed and there were sticky patches however England are playing rugby with a purpose and intensity and that fills me with confidence. Stuart Lancaster's men did what they needed to do and tonight they should put their feet up and relax after an emotional trip to Cardiff last Friday and a productive one today at home.
View all the Out On The Full Photos from Twickenham here
