Words: Hugh Francis Anderson
Rugby, the gentleman’s sport that has its very origins in England, has, and will always, be part of our spectacular sporting heritage. So it’s little wonder we all adore the sport. As the Rugby World Cup lands on home soil, the atmosphere, momentum and energy in the build up is unparalleled, with the hope that England will come out victorious at the forefront of everyone’s minds. So let’s take time to appreciate our formidable team and the 10 reasons why they WILL win the World Cup.
1. SUPPORT OF THE HOME CROWDS
Many sporting triumphs have been won on the sheer support of the home crowds, an advantage that puts England in the very best position to come out on top. Home advantage is certainly in our favour – we, as spectators, can truly give the support needed to secure the win.
2. SETTLED SQUAD
As time moves forward, and a few curveball inclusions in the 31-man squad, most notably Sam Burgess, England’s squad has been reasonably settled and will put them in good stead to work as a united machine.
3. CHRIS ROBSHAW
Our golden boy, and the leader of the pack, Chris Robshaw, has not only been a regular face in the sport for many years now, but has a hefty list of captained games behind him. He is THE man to lead the England squad.
4. SAM BURGESS
A contentious decision, but one Stuart Lancaster has nonetheless made, is that of Centre, Sam Burgess. A recent Union convert, he could well be the shining star of the competition, not to mention the pressure to perform well and dispel unfavourable rumours driving him forwards.
5. DEFEAT OF IRELAND
England’s 21 – 13 win over Ireland in the last warm-up match before the World Cup is very, very good news for the squad. Having narrowly lost the Six Nations to Ireland earlier this year, a victory over them demonstrates England’s power to win.
6. PHENOMENAL NUMBER 10’S
Both Owen Farrell and George Ford are key power players on the field. They have both continuously performed and will continue to prove their might as the competition moves forward.
7. STUART LANCASTER
Lancaster has come under fire recently for his squad decisions, but we must remember his wilful dominance as head coach. He’s certainly the man for the job.
8. WINGS GALORE
The power duo of Jonny May and Anthony Watson on the wings has not only secured try after try in previous games, but also instilled fear into the opposition. Their power, speed and agility will be hard to match.
9. POOL A
Having a good line up for Pool A will certainly play to England’s advantage. Although no match is certain, and the England boys will have to fight hard, they have a real chance to come out on top.
10. IT’S TIME
It’s been 12 years since our last World Cup glory. That beautiful drop kick by Wilkinson in the closing stages of the final not only propelled him to international fame, but also showed the world what England, the home of Rugby, is truly made of. SWING LOW SWEET CHARIOT!
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