Marcus Smith has faced significant challenges recently, transitioning from starting fly-half to a bench position, highlighting the difficulties of adapting to team needs. Meanwhile, Fin Smith's strong performances and the assembly of a backline featuring Northampton players shed light on team strategy. This reflects a broader shift in England's playing style post-World Cup, relying more on a 10-15 playmaker. The article emphasizes the impact of team philosophy on performance, suggesting that issues with attack may not solely stem from Smith's individual performance, but the overall tactical approach.
It's patently obvious that his preferred position is fly-half but he has been asked to do a job for the greater good of the team and has done so willingly.
Perhaps the biggest takeaway of the past few weeks is the value that George Furbank brings to this side.
Has England's attack looked clunky because of Marcus's performances or because of the philosophy the team is imbued with? I'd say the latter.
Since the World Cup and the international retirement of Owen Farrell, England have moved away from a 10-12 dual playmaker axis to 10-15.
Collection
[
|
...
]