|
The return of JW
Posted by Lucas - 5 February 2007 |
| |
The Six Nations opened with a wonderful round of exciting,
international rugby. It seems that every year, this age old
competition manages to magnetize rugby supporters’ the world over
and this year was no different. Or maybe it was, if for one reason
only, the return of the wunderkind – Jonny Wilkinson.
OK, so every England supporter can recite his injury tally and
joined with Aussie supporters they will remember infinite detail of
his most famous drop goal but very few of those could have predicted
the phenomenal return to international rugby as was witnessed on
Saturday.
Three years and 3 months after his last appearance with probably
about 3 hours and 30 minutes of first class rugby under the belt,
Jonny Wilkinson made the most terrific impact on world rugby on
Saturday. Forget that his ‘try’ was not a try and that his personal
tally was 27 points, and look at his overall display. He dominated
in defence, tactically and with ball in hand and this performance
must rate as the best comeback since France in 1999.
England with the little maestro in charge was a totally different
side, from the one that produced mediocre performances last year.
Yes, quite a few personnel changes were made by Ashton, but the
biggest single contributing factor was Wilkinson. South Africa and
the likes who thought that the pool match was going to be easy meat
will have to re-think, carefully.
The big question on every one’s lips is of course, can he retain his
health and fitness for more than one match? This fan certainly hopes
so, even to the detriment of a Springbok result in France. Talent
and great performances, regardless from what player or country is
what makes the game of rugby great and why this writer is sitting in
front of his keyboard tapping away.
Welcome back Jonny, you were sorely missed!
|
|
