England 39 v 13 Pacific Islanders

Match Review

England took to the field for the first time under the new management of Head Coach Martin Johnson and a new era dawned!

Whilst I can't put my hand on heart and say everything gelled, as it did not.  However, for the first time in a very long time, I felt that lovely mixture of feelings when you support a team of any kind. You know the feelings I am on about, excitement, expectancy, sitting on the edge of the seat as they moved towards the try line and then jumping for joy as they went over for a try.  And once again being in awe of my hero Martin Johnson (I did tell you all that he was /is my hero didn't' I)

England again a new team, a young team, a bit nervy at times but oh that excitement and enthusiasm of the likes of Delon Armitage.......who demonstrated coolness under high balls and handled the pressure well, he was definitely worthy winner of the Investec Challenge Man of the Match award.  This is what Martin Johnson had to say about the game and Delon

"It was a pretty difficult game in wet conditions but we got there in the end.

"We played pretty well but there are lots of areas to improve on.

"We've got an exciting young team. There are not a lot of caps out there. We'll go on from here and we'll build through the year.

"I thought our back three were outstanding, and played with real assurance. I was really pleased with Delon Armitage - I don't think I've seen a better debut than that."

England's first try came from Paul Sackey and the second from Danny Cipriani who was not at his best today.  He conceded an early penalty and then was charged down gifting the Pacific Islanders their first try, he also missed kicks so much to improve on but perhaps a bit of nerves on the day.   The second half tries came from Nick Kennedy, Lee Mears and that man again Paul Sackey.  Danny Care almost and really should have had a try but let the ball slip as he went over the line.

I thought the forwards were solid today and the lineout just what the doctor ordered.   We did seem to lose a little shape when we had a number of changes in the second half but all in all that was a really good performance from a new young England side.  Yes lots to work on but I just feel it in my bones that this is the new beginning we have been waiting for since November 2003. 

Roll on next week as although the Pacific Islanders were big and tough they were a scratch side and next week will be a different ball game.   And after seeing what Italy did against Australia this weekend, being 14v14 at half time and 20v30 at full time, I really fancy England's chances against Australia next week.

England (20) 39
Tries: Sackey (2), Cipriani, Kennedy, Mears
Cons: Cipriani (4) Pens: Cipriani (2)

Pacific Islanders (10) 13
Tries: Rabeni Cons: Hola Pens: Hola, Bai

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