The Mental Game
The Wallabies scored two tries, both crucially brought them back within striking distance of England. Foley’s try was as good as any you’ll see, Horne injected himself into the inside line from a quick ruck ball and gets put through by Foley who backs up to get the return pass to go in unopposed. It was beautiful in it’s simplicity and was as much about the involved player’s brilliance as it was about the build up phase play of the entire team.
Skelton’s try was a little more sledgehammer than rapier like, but it came off the back of great, defense sapping lead up play.
What I found strange however was the reaction of the players to what were both rewards for excellent play and tickets back into the fixture. They were somewhat subdued. I’m used to seeing swan dives and over aggressive hugging in such situations. On Saturday though it was little smiles and back pats. What’s up with that? Compare that to England’s chest thumping and fist pumping when they went over, it is a stark contrast.
I don’t know what to make of it. I think people can get carried away, but I also think in big matches you have to use the emotion of those moments to get an emotional boost and perhaps take a little wind out of your opponent’s sails.
