England rediscovered some attacking verve and ambition just when they needed it
Eddie Jones and his players needed a response after dismal showing against Scotland and they got one
Anthony Watson made telling contributions in England s victory over Italy
Credit: AP
There is a slender margin between ecstasy and agony in Test rugby, one exposed in the starkest terms at Ice Station Twickenham. Take Jack Willis, the flanker who had so painstakingly convalesced from a serious injury for this chance to fortify England’s back row. One moment, he is burrowing over for only his second try in national colours, and the next, he is creased in agony on a motorised stretcher, after a knee movement so wrenching that Ellis Genge puts his hands to his head in horror. It is a reminder, if any is needed, of the transience of glory at international level, of how cruelly even the greatest moments can be snatched away.
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The âMayflyâ entered rugbyâs lexicon at Twickenham last night as once again England looked to Jonny May to supply their attacking brio with a spectacular airborne finish.
It was Mayâs stunning finish against Ireland in November that topped a rather short showreel of their autumn campaign, and yesterday his salmon-like leap over Luca Sperandioâs attempted tackle at the end of the first half provided the highlight of this workmanlike victory against Italy.
âIt just happened instinctively, it is just a little skill you need to have there and luckily I was able to execute it today,â said May, whose legs made contact with the corner flag while still in the air but he was able to ground the ball before going into touch.
After three starts for England and only ten touches of the ball, a game against Italy might have been considered the opportunity for Ollie Lawrence to play his way into the international game at last
England head coach Eddie Jones has defended his controversial decision to drop Ollie Lawrence from the squad to play Italy tomorrow. Jones said that it was a test of resilience for the Worcester