How England rescued themselves in 14-minute comeback that can be World Cup boost

England have a mountain to climb but a dogged response, spurred by some impressive individual performances, can be their foothold

For all the mistakes that went before, particularly in a frankly gruesome passage that cost three cards and two tries as Wales forged 17-9 ahead, England’s finish was impressive. An unlikely comeback began with just 12 men on the field. And not only did England’s win evade the ignominy of their lowest ever world ranking; it also provided some straws to clutch at.

The improvements that Steve Borthwick would have hoped for did not materialise. World Cup contenders will not be losing sleep over the prospect of facing his team. Still, given the underwhelming outlook with a trip to Ireland next as one of two just two games left before the tournament begins, England will be grateful for crumbs of comfort. Here are the lessons from a remarkable 14 minutes that demonstrated real mettle.

Whatever happens out in France this autumn, England could have an even more difficult time in the lead-up to 2027 because they face a rebuild down the spine of their team. In George Martin, though, they have a big talent in both senses.

He did not have it all his own way in this mini-series against Wales, but the 22-year-old lock bedded in the only way he knows – by working himself into the ground. Note his starting position, and that of Courtney Lawes, as George Ford restarts the game following Tomos Williams’ try: