The good news is that England are taking the positives. Again. It may be seven defeats in nine games, but did you see the way they fought for a losing bonus point with the game gone? How about how the tweaked defensive system frustrated Ireland – until it didn’t. Remember, of course, that the defending champions are a great team; five points is no difference at all, really. What a learning experience this will prove to be.
Play that tape, Steve. “That was a Test match where, for large parts, there wasn’t much in it,” England head coach Steve Borthwick said. “I think this group of players is building and is going to be a very, very good team.
