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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Sport
Robert Kitson

Willis brothers prove that resilience is key in harsh world of rugby union

Tom Willis runs with the ball in Saracens’ Premiership win over Bristol Bears.
Tom Willis runs with the ball in Saracens’ Premiership win over Bristol Bears. Photograph: Gaspafotos/MB Media/Getty Images

Sometimes people forget the most priceless quality in a rugby player. It can also be easily overlooked, particularly on sunny days in benign conditions when tries flow like warm honey. Even away from home in deepest midwinter, with sub-zero temperatures freezing your snot, it is only fully visible to those aware of just how deep certain individuals have already had to dig to be there.

So yes, size clearly matters to some extent. Vision, too, in a game that grows ever quicker. Athleticism, power and pace, obviously. Tactical nous, regardless of position. Above all else, though, is something that goes beyond mere routine commitment. Call it resilience, character, stubbornness, competitiveness or virtual insanity, it is particularly evident in adversity. Some people have it by the bucket-load, others less so.

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