Steve Borthwick launched a defence of England’s turgid style of play after the 34-12 win over Japan that moved them to the top of Pool D. “At the end of the day, the players find a way, and that’s the important thing,” the head coach said after a game marked by numerous fumbles and interminable kicking battles, but he also promised that England’s attack would begin to click soon.
The crucial try came via a bounce off Joe Marler’s head and the beneficiary, Courtney Lawes, admitted that England had a little good fortune. “Quite a lucky try, but I’ll take them where they come,” Lawes said. “I saw it ricochet off his head, so I was pretty sure it had gone backwards.”
England dominated possession and territory against a spirited Japan side but committed 11 handling errors in humid, slippery conditions. “It’s challenging for both teams,” Borthwick argued. “You saw a Japan team that kicked the ball 37 times today. That gives you a sign. Fiji scored one try off a box kick [in their 22-15 win against Australia earlier on Sunday]. For the players to find a way of scoring four tries, they did tremendously well.”
Despite the long periods of frustration, Borthwick said he had seen enough in this performance to suggest that there was more to come, with Billy Vunipola coming off the bench and Owen Farrell and Tom Curry returning from suspension in the coming weeks. “We’re seeing strides in some of the fundamental aspects of the game, and growth now in our attack,” he said. “The attack always takes longest to come because it takes cohesion. Some teams have had four or even eight years together. We’ve had three months with our coaching team in place.”
Ben Earl also admitted that England were still yet to find top gear, but took encouragement from the way the team were grinding out ugly wins. “It’s a sign of a team that’s growing and improving,” said the back-row. “We’re going to get better, and hopefully next week we’ll take a step forward as a side.”
England face Chile in Lille on Saturday as they attempt to secure qualification for the quarter-finals.
