We all know what Borthwick will be saying in his dulcet tones in the England camp this week, “No one gives us a chance boys, lets right the wrongs of 2019, and prove them all wrong.”
The psychological factor in this game is looming large and will play a massive part. But mentality only goes some way, what tactics can Borthwick deploy to ensure England reach a second consecutive final and deny the holders a chance to retain the title.
Let’s be honest, the South African march to the final looks seemingly inevitable, to beat the hosts in Paris was no mean feat. But it was also the manner of the South African victory which is most daunting. It was perfect in almost every aspect; ruthless, quick and accurate. So what can this largely underperforming England side do, to do the unthinkable and beat the Boks.
One word, kick.
Englands game plan isn’t hard to analyse, its kick, chase, pressure, penalty, repeat. England will only win this game if they have the least possession. They are most comfortable without the ball, especially if it is in the air. Now this isn’t a given that England win the ariel battle, but its probably the one they can compete best with.
Just last time they played each other in autumn 2022, Eddie Jones’ last game, a loose high kick from Marcus Smith and Willemse linked with Arendse to run the length of the Twickenham pitch with grace and ease. England must be tighter and more disciplined in open kick chase play.
But it was also against France where South Africa got most joy out of loose kicks and pressure.
England will be looking to do the same but against the Boks. Jonny May is purely in the team to catch high balls and chase kicks, its been a long time since we saw a genuinely good attacking performance from him. Same goes for Daly and Steward.
With the high intensity back row of Earle, Curry and Lawes, England will be the ones looking to exert the most pressure with territory and kick chase.
If England play too much with the ball the Bok defence will be licking its lips. England must ensure they play all their rugby in the Bok half and looks to win penalties and kick drop goals.
Simply, they must replicate the week one performance against Argentina, albeit against a much harder opposition.
A downpour is expected for tomorrow evening, so England know the task that is ahead of them.
The route to victory is certainly narrow, but they have the tools, the plan, the motivation and the experience. Sir Steve Borthwick sounds quite nice doesn’t it?
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