sport news It was a MAD decision by England's Marcus Smith to kick the ball out against ... trends now
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If I’d been the England coach at Twickenham on Saturday night I’d have gone absolutely mad at Marcus Smith’s decision to kick the ball out and accept a draw.
I’d have wanted to know why. For me, Smith’s option showed that England’s mentality isn’t in the same league as the other top teams.
I don’t think New Zealand would have done that.
The obvious thing to say after such a crazy game is well done to England for salvaging something from it. But a crazy final 10 minutes shouldn’t detract from the previous 70.
England head coach Eddie Jones (right) praised fly-half Marcus Smith (left) after Saturday's draw with New Zealand
England clawed back a draw against the All Blacks at Twickenham on Saturday evening
England’s late salvo must not paper over the cracks. For long periods Eddie Jones’ side were second best. England made basic errors and their discipline was poor.
And yet they could still have won. I was so disappointed when Smith booted the ball out. Everyone around me watching at Twickenham felt the same way. A few looked at me and said a few words which are unprintable! It was hugely disappointing.
I could understand the boos from the crowd.
England were very poor for the first 70 minutes before a crazy final 10.
At the finale, New Zealand were there for the taking. After losing Beauden Barrett to a yellow card, the All Blacks were on the ropes. That’s what makes Smith’s call so disappointing.
Late tries ensured England avoided what at one stage looked set to be a heavy defeat
Smith decided to kick the ball out on last play with the match level and England on top
Jones’ post-match comments that he trusts the players
