Let’s compete, not contain

FROM an Irish perspective, Twickenham has proved a distinctly inhospitable venue in recent times.

Not since Simon Geoghegan’s try inspired a famous victory in 1994 have Ireland had any cause to celebrate at England’s rugby headquarters. Over the past ten years, Ireland have travelled in hope and returned in frustration and desperation. The last two encounters have been particularly painful with respective defeats of 32 and 34 points.

England now boast the best home record of any international side in world rugby, with 22 straight victories against all comers. Today, England defends that record for the first time as world champions.