The England head coach, Steve Borthwick, has vowed to give supporters more nights to enjoy in France and “in the pubs at home” after a George Ford masterclass ensured they began their World Cup campaign with a fine victory against Argentina.
Tom Curry was sent to the sin-bin inside three minutes and when his yellow card was subsequently upgraded to red – a fourth for England since March – they were staring down the barrel of another defeat under Borthwick.
England rallied, however, and with Ford kicking all 27 points, including three drop goals, Argentina were comfortably put to the sword. The only disappointing aspect was that hundreds of supporters were forced to miss the start of the match due to lengthy queues amid chaotic scenes in Marseille.
But Borthwick said: “There was a feeling from the players that they’d been written off a bit too early … it’s a quality group of players who are going to keep improving. I think we’re going to move forward to [our next game against] Japan … but I hope they’re enjoying it in the pubs at home. The players deserve to enjoy this tonight.”
Ford’s tally was a personal record on the international stage as he became the first Englishman to score three drop goals since Jonny Wilkinson in the 2003 World Cup semi-final. “It’s a great weapon for us,” said Ford. “We know how important and big drop goals can be at World Cups. We don’t want to be a team that just relies on adversity, of course not, but I don’t think it is a bad trait to have when something goes against you that brings the best out of you.”
England had gone into the match as underdogs after losing three of their four warm-up matches and six of their nine since Borthwick took over. The head coach added: “A lot of people have been talking and writing columns about the experience but the players showed their experience on the big occasion. I felt that these players were ready to perform on the biggest of stages. We’re pleased with the win and that we stepped forward in some areas.”
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Of Ford’s performance, Borthwick said: “George was magnificent this evening. We all talk about his kicking and scoring the points, but his composure and management showed throughout. This performance is an example of the great leadership in this England team.”
