Ellis Genge's Response to Critics

England's vice-captain Ellis Genge has expressed his astonishment at the backlash following England's 16-15 victory over Scotland in the Six Nations. Despite the win securing England's position in the title race and marking Scotland's first defeat since 2020, the team's performance has been under scrutiny for its conservative play style.

The Victory and Its Reception

Genge highlighted the irony of the situation, stating, "We won the game and people are still upset about it." He noted that while the crowd's dissatisfaction was palpable during the game, the post-match analysis in the media was particularly disheartening. "I just can't believe how out of touch they are," Genge remarked, referring to the critics.

Strategic Play and Its Impact

England's strategy, primarily focused on kicking, has been a point of contention. Critics like World Cup-winning centre Will Greenwood described England's performance as "tough watch" and "infuriating," suggesting the team is not playing to its full potential. However, Genge defended the approach, emphasizing the importance of results. "Do you want to be part of a team that wins every single game by one point? Or would you rather be part of a team that loses every single week, 40 points to 39?" he questioned.

Looking Ahead to Italy

As England prepares to face Italy on Sunday, March 9, Genge acknowledged the challenge. Despite Italy's recent heavy defeat by France, they have shown formidable strength, including a victory over Wales in Wales. Genge and his teammates are gearing up for a tough encounter, aware that Italy is no longer considered a guaranteed win.

Conclusion

Genge's comments shed light on the pressures faced by international teams and the importance of strategic diversity in rugby. As England continues its campaign in the Six Nations, the focus remains on balancing effective play with the expectations of fans and critics alike.