England supporters voiced their displeasure at head coach Steve Borthwick’s decision to substitute star player Marcus Smith during the final moments of their intense match against the All Blacks.
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England, who were deserving of a better outcome, ultimately lost the series 2-0. The margins were incredibly fine, and there is hope that the team can reflect on this with some positivity, recognising the potential for more from this squad.
The match itself was a thrilling contest, with only one score separating the teams at the end. However, New Zealand once again emerged victorious, securing a 24-17 win as the final whistle blew.
Smith, who was undoubtedly the standout player before being substituted, had been orchestrating England’s play. His departure significantly impacted the visitors’ attack.
Although Smith did return to the field as a fullback following Freddie Steward’s Head Injury Assessment (HIA), the game’s momentum had already been disrupted.
One fan wrote: “WTF did Borthwick take Marcus smith off,”
A second said: “Subs for the sake of subs. Borthwick’s pre-planned substitutes will cost them the game here,”
Another commented: “Can we just talk about Borthwick taking off key players in tight moments. Having the opportunity to make history and Marcus Smith was taken off. Man clearly not interested in winning.”
A fourth added: “Borthwick seems to make replacements when we’re on top and totally kills momentum. Taking Smith off was criminal.”
England stats vs All Blacks:
- Carries: Ben Earl – 18
- Metres made: Ben Earl – 73
- Defenders beaten: Immanuel Feyi-Waboso – 4
- Turnovers conceded: Freddie Steward – 2
- Tackles: Jamie George – 15
- Tackles missed: Sam Underhill – 4
England player ratings vs All Blacks:
15 Freddie Steward – 6.5
14 Immanuel Feyi-Waboso – 7.5
13 Henry Slade – 6.5
12 Ollie Lawrence – 8
11 Tommy Freeman – 7
10 Marcus Smith – 8