England v Australia - 2013 QBE Autumn Internationals
England v Australia - 2013 QBE Autumn Internationals
©Talking Rugby Union
A remarkable second-half turn around by England, saw two opportunistic tries from Captain Chris Robshaw and Owen Farrell turn a seven point half time deficit into a seven point win.
The game finished with England winning by 20 points to 13, and sealed the home nation’s first win of the QBE Autumn International series.
Furthermore, the win means England remain third in the IRB world rankings, with Australia staying one place behind in fourth.
The England side was filled with new blood and debutants, as Joel Tomkins won his first cap and winger Marland Yarde and number 8 Billy Vunipola made their home debuts in an England shirt.
The authoritative second half performance and important win for England, a decade on from that fateful Wilkinson drop-kick against Australia to seal the World Cup in 2003, will help Stuart Lancaster’s men as they build towards the home world Cup in less than two years’ time.
The Australian loss was another disappointing result for the Wallabies, as they have still only won three tests so far this year.
Moving away from the game’s missed infringements, it is confidence that seems to be lacking for the Australian side; although, after suffering defeats to both the British and Irish Lions and their Rugby Championship rivals, it’s hardly surprising.
Australia will have to step up a gear if they are to maintain their position of fourth in the IRB rankings and have a successful autumn tour. The Wallabies travel to Rome next weekend to face the Azzuri at the Stadio Olimpico.
On the other hand, England, with plenty of wind in their sails, welcome Argentina to Twickenham on Saturday, before the World Champion All Blacks return to HQ the following weekend.
