Marcus Smith’s attacking flair gives Borthwick and England new hope | Sean Ingle

Full-back and Henry Arundell on the wing show the side can be unpredictable and all the better for it in World Cup rout of Chile

After stinking out the Rugby World Cup in their opening two matches, this England performance was like sweet perfume. Conservatism gave way to unpredictability. Straightjacket rigidity to pace and unexpected delights. And while it was only Chile, officially the worst team at this World Cup, this punchy 71-0 demolition offered a glimpse of a potentially different – and more intriguing – path for Steve Borthwick’s side at this tournament.

The questions over the coming fortnight will surely centre on whether England’s coach will stick or twist, roll the dice or play it safe. But the fact they are being asked at all tells you something about this 11-try victory – and how well Henry Arundell and Marcus Smith grabbed their chance to make their case.

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from The Guardian https://ift.tt/38HZ5Cu

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