Having reviewed New Zealand, Cameron Gray continues looks at how the runners and riders are faring for RWC 2015 with England
2013 FORM
After walloping New Zealand in 2012 one could forgive Stuart Lancaster for strutting around with a swagger akin to that of Clubber Lang from Rocky 3. While England only dropped two games this year they were key games.
Wales gave them an old fashioned touch up in the 6 Nations decider in Cardiff while New Zealand dispatched them 30 – 22 in a match where England at one stage took the lead. Typical of the New Zealand approach they upped the ante in the closing quarter and England couldn’t keep up.
Critics might say they were lucky to squeak past Australia in a match where they received at least one incredibly lucky call and another that could have gone either way. Both calls resulted in points.
Overall they look in good shape headed into 2014. Their forwards are a combative bunch and will surrender to no one in the tight exchanges. If they get a roll on they can strangle teams out of the game which they did to New Zealand for long periods in 2013.
KEY PLAYERS
Manu Tuilagi will be a key player in the next two seasons. His physical presence was missed in the Autumn Tests and will provide a big fear factor for other teams given his size and speed.
Courtney Lawes, however, might hold the keys to England’s domination. He’s mobile, agile and hostile. Very much in the Martin Johnson mould but a tad more athletic. If he can control his aggression and move bodies he’ll be a force; most opposition forwards may want to veer out of his way.
STRATEGIC APPROACH
Based on recent form there is nothing new or fancy here.
England look to belt you in the forwards and generate penalties for their sharp-shooter Owen Farrell. He doesn’t miss much and opposing teams will want to be careful not to infringe. Nearly anything in the opposition half is within his range.
When England get Tuilagi back they’ll be even more potent as he’ll get his team over the advantage line. Ma’a Nonu v. Tuilagi will be worth the price of admission alone in New Zealand next year. The winner of this duel should give his team a massive advantage.
STRENGTHS
Brutal forwards, accurate goal kicking and a strong midfield.
With their grounds full and the crowds bellowing out renditions of ‘Swing Low, Sweet Chariot’ England will be tough to topple at home in 2015.
Whether it’s enough to take them to their second title remains to be seen but England’s style of play is custom-built for World Cups. Disregarding 1987 all RWC finals have been tight and the winner has generally had a great goal kicker.
WORK-ONS
Lancaster will need to find at least one or maybe two decent midfielders that can fill in if Manu Tuilagi suffers another injury. His selection brief should read: elusive and rapid with a touch of grunt.
He might need to throw someone to the wolves on the New Zealand tour and hope he holds his head above water.
2015 PREDICTION
Runner up
