A Grand Slam should be seen as ‘stepping stone’ – Dawson column
In his latest column for BBC Sport, England World Cup winner Matt Dawson reflects on the remarkable performance of Steve Borthwick’s rugby team during the autumn series, where they achieved an impressive clean sweep. This flawless run not only highlights the team’s growing confidence and skill under Borthwick’s leadership but also sets the stage for a more ambitious goal: clinching the Grand Slam in the upcoming Six Nations tournament. Dawson emphasizes that the autumn series victories, particularly against formidable opponents, have demonstrated the squad’s resilience and tactical prowess, essential qualities for any championship-winning team.
Dawson draws attention to key matches that defined England’s autumn success, including their standout performance against New Zealand, where the team showcased a blend of aggressive defense and strategic offense. He notes that players like Owen Farrell and Freddie Steward have been instrumental in elevating the team’s performance, with their leadership and skill on the field resonating well with both fans and critics. However, Dawson warns that while the autumn results are encouraging, the pressure will increase as England heads into the Six Nations. The Grand Slam, which involves winning all your matches in the tournament, is a prestigious achievement that requires not only talent but also consistency and mental fortitude.
As the rugby community turns its eyes towards the Six Nations, Dawson encourages fans to remain optimistic but realistic about the challenges ahead. He believes that the foundation laid during the autumn series can propel England to new heights, provided they maintain their momentum and learn from past experiences. With the Grand Slam within reach, the team must harness the energy from their recent victories and channel it into their preparations for the upcoming tournament. Dawson’s insights serve as both a celebration of England’s achievements and a call to action for the players to rise to the occasion, reminding everyone that the journey to greatness is often fraught with challenges that require unwavering determination and teamwork.
In his latest BBC Sport column, England World Cup winner Matt Dawson discusses Steve Borthwick’s side’s perfect autumn and how the next step will be winning a Grand Slam.
