Semi-finals would be laudable given their decline since 2003. But getting out of their group will be tough enough, and a quarter-final could be the end of the line.
However, they have defied expectations and have reached the finals, hopefully to make history as the first team in Rugby World Cup history to win in successive tournaments.
Here are some of things we can learn from the English rugby union team
Statistics don’t predict anything – Going into the tournament, England were ranked 7th in the world, but by wining games against Australia and France both ranked above them they have moved to 3rd in the world
Don’t listen to what people say – Just because people call you the worst defending champions ever doesn’t mean you have to act out what they say
Music can motivate you – Listening to music and singing can inspire and motivate you, especially if you have a special song (video link of England team singing The Gambler is included just above the first picture), plus Kenny Roger’s message to the team
Determination is important – Sometimes determination is the only thing that will get you the result
Have people who believe in you – It is important to be surrounded by fans , the people who support you no matter what
Its okay to feel emotions – you may be really tough, but passion can drive you to great achievements
Know how to celebrate – its important to recognise and celebrate your success
Rugby Union is a fantastic game to watch because it is fast, exciting, tough complex. If you watched a rugby game before, turn on tomorrow night (kick off is 9pm French time) and support England. And if you don’t know the words for Swing Low Sweet Chariots, its time to learn.
Picture credit: NKLRD
Owh…how are you recovering? I was devastated. I am a Wallabies (Australian) Supporter but when England kicked us out I supported England and was so upset that they lost. And I think Johnny is brilliant!!
I’ve got over it very easily, surprisingly. I think it would have been more difficult if it had been a more nail biting game like the quarter final against Australia.
We gave away some silly penalities and seemed to get a bit lost towards the end of the game, but we put forward a more convincing game than most people would have expected after the previous game against South Africa. If the try had been allowed who knows ….
After seven weeks of lots of rugby, I just need to wait until February now until the six nations starts.
England always was my fovourite team, they are the best 🙂