In a heart-stopping clash, New Zealand handed England a bitter start to their autumn campaign, as Mark Tele’a emerged from the bench to score a crucial try in the 76th minute, reaffirming the All Blacks’ dominance on the pitch.
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Having narrowly lost to New Zealand in two Tests back in July, England hoped that a change of scenery would shift the tide in their favor. However, George Ford’s last-gasp drop-goal attempt agonisingly drifted wide, sealing the fate of the match.
Fans and pundits alike are buzzing about the unexpected substitution of Marcus Smith, who had been nothing short of sensational before his removal. The decision sparked outrage from former players and supporters, all questioning the rationale behind the move.
Former England fly-half Andy Goode took to X to voice his thoughts: “Hell of a game won by the finest of margins, congrats to the @AllBlacks. So much fight and endeavour by @EnglandRugby but I’m not sure about taking Marcus Smith off when he was on fire and one missed tackle ended up being the difference.”
Former All Blacks fly-half Lima Sopoaga expressed his thoughts, saying, “If I’m Marcus Smith I’m spewing,” while retired Fiji and Leicester Tigers winger Nemani Nadolo added, “Crazy old game.. crazy to bring Marcus Smith off.. I thought the energy changed when he went off?”
Another said: “Why on earth would you sub Marcus Smith when he was playing immaculately? A senseless choice of sub that cost us the game. Of all unusual substitutions @EnglandRugby fans have ever seen made, that one truly takes the cake. Bizarre decision, with pressure heaped on Ford.”
Another noted: “Marcus Smith has just had a pretty much textbook hour of test rugby. I try to see all sides of any argument but I cannot fathom how anyone still questions his game management.”
Yet another chimed in: “Marcus Smith was having a good game and probably would have nailed the penalty/drop goal. Never understand why Borthwick decides to effectively park the bus with 10 mins to go.”
Three players England should drop – and who should replace them next weekend
England’s autumn opener started off with a harsh reality check as the mighty All Blacks clinched a 76th-minute try by Mark Tele’a.
The last-minute heartbreaker solidified New Zealand’s dominance over the men in white. Even George Ford’s last-gasp drop-goal attempt, drifting painfully wide, couldn’t change the fate.
Next up: Australia! We look at the changes Steve Borthwick might consider to keep England’s campaign alive.
Ollie Sleightholme for Tommy Freeman – Time to Shine?
Freeman’s high-ball game is usually his superpower, but this time, it was kryptonite. New Zealand thrived in the aerial battles as England’s early game faltered.
Enter Ollie Sleightholme! With form on his side, it’s high time Borthwick gives him the international platform. Could Sleightholme be the shake-up England needs?
