🔗 Share this article

During November 2024, English number 10 Ford cut a dejected figure at Allianz Stadium.

Ford had been summoned as a substitute to assist the hosts secure an historic victory versus the All Blacks, yet missed a decisive kick plus a drop-goal attempt as England lost in a close contest.

Following those costly misses, Ford had to work hard to get another shot at delivering glory for England.

He saw just 25 minutes of action during this year's Six Nations yet multiple strong showings, notably in the summer tour versus Argentine and American teams as Fin Smith and Marcus Smith had departed for British and Irish Lions duty, put him firmly back as a starting option.

At 32 years old did more than justify Steve Borthwick's faith through his selection facing the Kiwis, and the Sharks star produced a man-of-the-match display to support England to a breakthrough triumph versus the Kiwis on home soil since 2012.

The decisive instant in the game Ford nailed consecutive drop-kicks immediately preceding halftime.

It helped England recover from 12-0 down to narrow the gap to 12-11 when the half ended, prior to the coach's talented substitutes repeatedly excelled in the second half to support England to a decisive 33-19 victory.

"Recognition should be offered to the senior players within our side, particularly Ford," the manager commented. "That period where he hit those drop-goals, he directed play remarkably well.

"One year earlier I thought George entered and performed exceptionally well [versus the All Blacks].

"A kick hit the post and he had a pressured drop-kick, yet he performed excellently.

"He is a phenomenal leader, a superb performer and an even better person. We are honored to include him within our roster."

Drop-goals 'part of the strategy'

The All Blacks began rapidly during the match, building a twelve-point advantage via touchdowns by Fainga'anuku and Taylor.

After Lawrence's impressive score, Ford's back-to-back three-pointers resulted in the home side returned to the changing rooms with renewed energy.

"The difficult aspect during those periods is, when the scoreboard says 12-0, we are able to adhere to our plan and what we believe the best way to play the game is," Ford said.

"We fought our way back into it and we knew should we begin the final period strongly, with the bench coming on, we would be in a good position.

"Although facing fifteen minutes to go, we found ourselves near our try line with a yellow card, so we had challenges during that phase also.

"I believe this illustrates international rugby involves - who manages best in those circumstances the best."

Both kicks occurred within two minutes of each other while the number 10 who nailed three drop-kicks in a win versus Argentina in the last global tournament, displayed his complete international experience.

Ford hit two three-pointers for Sale during a Premiership match occurring during tough circumstances versus Bath - this represents an ability he has extensively practiced.

"It [the drop-goals] is always in the plan," Ford continued.

"Borthwick represents a phenomenal leader since he continually in my ear about it, and rightly so since three points are crucial at any stage of competition."

Ford directed his side brilliantly throughout the match all game, executing intelligent kicks - for both attacking and defensive purposes and identifying openings behind the visitors' backfield.

His characteristic high spiral kick further confused Beauden Barrett, who mishandled the ball.

Having started the English victory over Australia in early November, Ford passed on the starting role to his replacement during the Fiji match seven days later.

But the biggest test on paper this autumn occurred versus the three-time world champions, and Ford reclaimed his starting role.

The national side, currently enjoying 10 straight wins, meet Argentina in late November and it will be interesting to determine whether the coach returns for the younger Smith or persists with Ford.

Whatever choice occurs, Ford proved ahead of the next tournament prior to global competition that significant amounts of play remaining for him.