England

Runners up in 2007, England has not enjoyed much success since the completion of the Rugby World Cup Tournament in 2007. The 6 nations campaign in 2009 was not a stunning success, although there were many signs of relief when Wales were dispatched early on in the competition. Any hope a good campaign was quickly extinguished however, leaving the side and fans unsure of how well prepared this England side was ahead of the Rugby Union World Cup in 2011. Martin Johnson, legendary player, had yet to establish himself as a legendary manager. What a difference a season makes, and a few selection changes with England stamping their authority on world rugby by matching the All Blacks to post a narrow defeat, and then easily dispatching the Wallabies in the end of year tour in 2010. 6 Nations 2011 has gone well for England, with a victory over Wales in Wales, and a thrashing of Italy. True progress will be measured against France, but it is clear that this England side has turned the corner and there is real cause for optimism for England supporters at the 2011 Rugby Union World Cup.

2011 Rugby Union World Cup – England

Martin Johnson and his side have emerged from the rebuilding phase just in time for the 2011 Rugby Union World Cup, and the side is playing great, open, attacking rugby behind an extremely strong pack of forwards that can foot it with any side in the world. The back line, traditionally the butt of jokes from the overly confident and smug Southern Hemisphere teams, has shown what they are capable of with quality ball from their forwards, and the creativity of Flood teamed with quick ball delivery from Youngs. This England side has what it takes to hold aloft that Rugby World Cup again, as they did in 2003, with the man that won that tournament as captain now in charge as manager. That experience could prove crucial for this exciting team.

England Forward Play at 2011 Rugby Union World Cup

A fondness for strong forward play in the set piece has always dominated the England game plan. Scrums, lineouts, and drop outs to restart the game are what the players love. A few rule changes may also suit this style of play with the rolling maul enjoying a renaissance in recent times. With big forwards, that are strong and have good technique, England will rumble their way into the finals series without any trouble. But can they go better than that? You bet they can, and they have already shown what they are capable of with exciting players in the backline moving to the forefront of a new style of play, guided by some old heads in key roles to ensure that this is done at the right time. This is a great time to be an England supporter, and they are justifiably confident ahead of 2011 Rugby Union World Cup.

2011 Rugby Union World Cup - England

England are always a strong side who perform well at Rugby Union World Cup tournaments. They are a side with the big game mental toughness and they are excellent at grinding out games, shutting down their opponents and controlling the game to suit them and their tactics. They know how to play, and they have a coach that was the best captain of a rugby side in the world. Possibly ever. It is hard to imagine any side that would not be inspired by playing for such a man. Coupled with some exciting new talent, the confidence to spread the ball wide and take on anyone, this is a formidable side that has every chance of winning the 2011 Rugby Union World Cup in New Zealand. And with such exciting players and the enthusiasm to play open running rugby, as well as the strength and physical presence to handle the tough stuff of football, and even set a new benchmark in this area, England may be the most well rounded team heading into the 2011 Rugby Union World Cup.