The_Brown_Hornet
John Eales (66)
Rule 1 for them is "Don't get beaten". How defeat is avoided is of limited concern. We tend to have an aversion to winning ugly, although there is a dichotomy between those who are only thrilled by flashy backline play and a lesser number who enjoy the hand to hand engagements of trench warfare. The latter are more appreciative of the rugby played in the Northern Hemisphere.
Absolutely correct, especially when it comes to England. They play to avoid losing first, then try to win. It's just how they are and I'm not going to criticise it. I think as an Aussie, I would rather see us take the game on and if we lose so be it, so long as we've gone down swinging.
This is still sport. It's not war. The fate of nations doesn't rest on it or even my bank balance. Sport is entertainment and I would rather see a good game of footy than 80 minutes of turgid spectacle. If we ever make it our game plan to win at all costs, I'm out.