England End Autumn Series with Dominant Win Over Japan

England captain Jamie George expressed confidence in his team’s progress after they capped off their Autumn Nations Series with a dominant 9-try victory over Eddie Jones’ Japan at Twickenham. The win helped England avoid a sixth consecutive loss, following narrow defeats to New Zealand, Australia and South Africa. Despite holding leads in those games, England struggled to close out victories with George noting the team’s ability to put top teams under pressure but failing to sustain it for 80 minutes.

“The plan is very clear, and we’re being coached well but we need to deliver it on the field for the full match,” he said, adding that there’s a lot to be proud of in the team’s efforts. Although England have suffered seven losses this year, only two of those were by more than one score including a defeat to world champions South Africa. Coach Steve Borthwick has used the year to introduce new players following several retirements after the Rugby World Cup.

Young talents like Ollie Sleightholme and Tommy Freeman, both key in the Japan victory are showing promise. Freeman’s behind-the-back pass to George Furbank was one of the match’s highlights. Fly-half Marcus Smith, who has impressed this autumn has matured significantly under Borthwick’s leadership with Jones praising his decision-making and attacking skills.

Jones in his first return to Twickenham as Japan’s head coach, also acknowledged England’s progress, stating they’re moving in the right direction despite the challenges faced. “England are playing the way they want to, and it’s going to take time,” he said. Looking ahead, England’s next challenge will be against Ireland in Dublin on February 1st marking the start of their 2025 Six Nations campaign.