🔗 Share this article

During November 2024, England fly-half Ford appeared disappointed at Allianz Stadium.

The replacement was brought on off the sidelines to help the hosts close out a famous win facing the Kiwis, but instead failed to convert a decisive kick and drop-goal as his side fell short in a close contest.

Following those costly misses, Ford needed to put in effort to get another shot to bring victory for England.

He saw just 25 minutes of action throughout the Six Nations tournament however a series of impressive performances, especially during the warm-weather tour of Argentina and the United States when the Smith players were away on Lions tour commitments, put him firmly back in the starting mix.

The 32-year-old did more than justify Steve Borthwick's faith through his selection versus New Zealand, but the Sale Sharks playmaker achieved a best-player showing to help England to a first win against the All Blacks at home ending a drought dating to 2012.

The crucial point came when Ford converted back-to-back drop-goals right before half-time.

It helped England bounce back from being down 12-0 to reduce the margin to 12-11 by halftime, ahead of the manager's skilled reserves once more performed during the final period to support England to a convincing 33-19 victory.

"You have to give credit to the experienced players within our side, especially George," Borthwick told. "During that phase where he hit those drop-kicks, he controlled the match absolutely brilliantly.

"One year earlier I believed Ford substituted and competed really well [versus the All Blacks].

"A kick hit the post while he attempted a pressured drop-kick, however his play was outstanding.

"He's an exceptional captain, a brilliant player and an even finer individual. We are honored to feature him within our roster."

Drop-goals 'part of the strategy'

New Zealand started quickly in the stadium, building a substantial early margin with tries by Leicester Fainga'anuku and Codie Taylor.

After Lawrence's strong try, Ford's back-to-back drop-goals resulted in the home side returned to the halftime break with renewed energy.

"The challenging thing in those moments is, when the scoreboard says twelve to zero, we must maintain to our strategy and our convictions the best way to compete is," Ford said.

"We fought our way back into the game and we recognized should we begin the second half well, with substitutes entering, we would be in a favorable situation.

"Although facing 15 minutes left, we were positioned defending our goal line following a card, meaning we faced difficulties during that phase also.

"I think that's what elite competition requires - who manages best during those situations superiorly."

Each effort came within close succession while the number 10 who executed three drop-goals in a win against Argentina at the 2023 Rugby World Cup, demonstrated his full international experience.

Ford successfully executed two three-pointers representing Sale in a Prem game conducted in tough circumstances at Bath - it is a skill he has mastered thoroughly.

"It [the drop-goals] are consistently planned," Ford continued.

"Borthwick represents a phenomenal leader that he consistently in my ear about it, and appropriately since three points prove important during any phase of play."

Ford directed England excellently throughout the match the complete contest, kicking smartly - both to compete and locating gaps in the opposition's territory.

His characteristic tactical bomb further confused Beauden Barrett, who couldn't collect.

Following his start in the national team's triumph against Australia in early November, Ford handed over the number 10 jersey to the younger Smith against Fiji the following week.

Yet the most significant examination on paper this autumn was presented by the three-time world champions, and Ford reclaimed his spot.

The English team, currently enjoying 10 straight wins, play against Argentina in late November and it will be interesting to determine if Borthwick goes back with the alternative or maintains Ford.

Whatever choice occurs, Ford established with two years remaining before the World Cup that there is plenty of rugby left for him.