England vs New Zealand November 2024 the closest of losses.
Nov05

England vs New Zealand November 2024 the closest of losses.

What a series this turned out to be. Three of the tightest of games, the teams separated by a measly 10 points across all three matches. All three one-score games. The final game coming down to a missed drop goal. Actually, one penalty and a drop goal attempt but who’s counting (not me). A penalty missed by mere inches, and a drop goal missed due to composure under pressure. It’s easy to look at this as a simple mistake,...

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The Anatomy of a Try: Ted Hill vs Northampton Saints – September 2024
Sep24

The Anatomy of a Try: Ted Hill vs Northampton Saints – September 2024

One of the most talked about Law changes/trials in recent memory is the adjustment to Law 10 offside in open play, specifically Law 10.4C, after a kick. Affectionately known as the Dupont Law, it removes the ability for an opposition player to be put on side by the ball carrier after a kick. In rough terms it means you have to make an effort to retreat towards your goalline, removing the ability for teams to creep up the pitch by...

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England Defence vs Japanese Attack
Jun23

England Defence vs Japanese Attack

It was billed as Jones vs Borthwick, their first meeting since parting ways in 2020. Jones the master tactician, has a plan for everyone. back with the all out attack of Japan, vs England’s boring Set Piece dominated game plan. In truth, as it turned out, it was the complete opposite. England’s attack was destructive and clinical, 8 tries taken against a Japanese side who recorded an 84% tackle success rate. If you only...

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The Anatomy of a Try – Elliot Daly vs Harlequins September 2022
Sep21

The Anatomy of a Try – Elliot Daly vs Harlequins September 2022

When Tommaso Allan slotted a neat 3 points around 15 minutes into the round 2 clash against Saracens you would have been well within your rights to have expected a 50-pointer being on the cards for the former European Champions. But, if there is one thing we know about Saracens it is that, much like the Borg, they learn, adapt and execute like very few other teams in Europe let alone the Premiership. From 17 points down they took the...

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The Anatomy of a Penalty Try –  Scotland vs England 2022 Six Nations
Feb11

The Anatomy of a Penalty Try – Scotland vs England 2022 Six Nations

It can, of course, be a great leveller but it’s very seldom you get a really great game in wet weather. A close game yes but that in itself doesn’t necessitate a good game. Yet the opening round of the Six Nations saw not one but three fantastic games in the wind and rain. We could take our pick o many moments from the three but I’m going to focus on the Calcutta cup for this week. My good friend and brilliant Analyst Geraint Davies...

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