England Rugby Faces Scrutiny After Narrow Defeat to New Zealand
England's persistent endgame struggles raise questions as they prepare for upcoming clashes with Australia and South Africa.
- England's recent 24-22 loss to New Zealand marks their fifth defeat in six matches against tier-one nations, highlighting persistent issues in the final quarter of games.
- Scrum penalties and discipline lapses have been recurring problems, with England conceding crucial penalties in the last 20 minutes of recent matches.
- The retirement of veteran prop Joe Marler has intensified the focus on England's scrummaging challenges, prompting the need for new solutions in the front row.
- George Ford's late missed penalty and drop goal attempt against New Zealand underscore England's struggles to close out tight games, despite strong performances earlier in matches.
- Upcoming matches against Australia and South Africa are critical for England, as they aim to convert potential into victories and maintain fan support amid high ticket prices.