"A Six Nations grand slam, plus Nations Championship victories against South Africa and Fiji and England would head to Argentina next July having equalled their record run of 18 wins, in pursuit of a ground-breaking No 19. Sounds simple put like that, but there's more chance of Steve Borthwick busting his best moves in England's next viral TikTok video than him entertaining any thought of record runs."
"The point here is that the more England keep winning, and they will enter the Six Nations next year as the team to beat after 11 on the trot, the more expectation increases. We got a glimpse of it just before half-time against Argentina. England were 17-3 ahead having barely got out of second gear when George Ford opted to kick a penalty at goal. He missed and when presented with an easier shot a minute later he was instructed to kick to the corner."
England can equal a record 18-match winning run and chase a 19th victory by winning the Six Nations plus tests against South Africa, Fiji and England away in Argentina next July. Coach Steve Borthwick avoids talking about long-term records or expectations, preferring a cautious focus. Continued victories will elevate public expectation and scrutiny, despite occasional nervy finishes. A recent match against Argentina saw England lead 17-3, take a penalty decision sequence that brought urgency but produced a disallowed try and nervous finale. The gulf with South Africa remains significant and England's last Six Nations title was in 2020.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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