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There’s something poetic about the way George Ford redeemed himself in front of the rugby world yesterday, not that he ever needed any redemption from certain sections, who already know the importance of the 32 year old fly half. A year ago, his last minute missed drop-goal and penalty in the dying moments against New Zealand haunted England fans, media and sent a question mark on if George Ford was still the man for the International stage. But yesterday, at Allianz Twickenham, he didn’t just respond. He answered with class, composure, and ice in his veins. Cool, calm, collected. Timeless like a Rolex. Right on time.
Lawrence (24'), Underhill (42'), Dingwall (54'), Roebuck (76')
Tries
Fainga'anuku (13'), Taylor (17'), Jordan (64')
Ford (43', 55')
Conversions
Barrett (18'), McKenzie (65')
Ford (74')
Penalties
Ford (37', 39')
Drop Goals
There’s something poetic about the way George Ford redeemed himself in front of the rugby world yesterday, not that he ever needed any redemption from certain sections, who already know the importance of the 32 year old fly half. A year ago, his last minute missed drop-goal and penalty in the dying moments against New Zealand haunted England fans, media and sent a question mark on if George Ford was still the man for the International stage. But yesterday, at Allianz Twickenham, he didn’t just respond. He answered with class, composure, and ice in his veins. Cool, calm, collected. Timeless like a Rolex. Right on time.
Back in November 2024, Ford had two late opportunities, a penalty and a drop-goal, to win the game for England against the All Blacks. He struck the post with the penalty, and his drop-goal attempt drifted wide. The pain of that moment weighed heavily, for him, his teammates, and the fans. England was ready to move on without the Oldham born fly half, with Fin Smith and Marcus Smith ready to step in. Little did they know, pressure makes diamonds.
However, I was able to interview him after Sale Sharks defeated Leicester Tigers, Sunday 1st December, where he was very clear about fighting against the rage machine, to move on from the older fly half and move in with the new.
In response to my question about the criticism after the New Zealand match in 2024, Ford was open sharing his response by saying “I suppose it’s water off a duck’s back, as you’ll always get people who don’t rate you, criticise you, and that’s the reality of it. If any George Ford critics want to stand up now, feel free to do so.
Yet, he made it clear after that match that he didn’t dwell on the misses. As he told Sky Sports this week, “I didn’t once reflect or think about 12 months ago, It’s a brand-new game, two teams at different stages.”
Fast forward to November 15, 2025. England went 12–0 down early, but Ford’s calm authority began to shine through. He nailed two drop goals, shifting momentum and putting England right back in the contest. In the second half, he converted a crucial penalty under pressure, sealing the 33–19 win England’s first home victory over New Zealand in 13 years, securing the Hilary Trophy and leaving fans to enjoy the long hard wait for victory over the All Blacks on home soil.
What makes this performance so powerful isn’t just technical skill, it’s Ford’s mindset.
That mentality was clearly on display on the pitch. But there’s more: in a raw, unfiltered moment (captured in my exclusive interview, Instagram video below), Ford addressed the criticism he’s received over the years and brushed it off like he always does:
“What I try to pride myself on, is how consistent I can be. The opinions I respect the most are my teammates, my coaches and my family”
He used the metaphor to explain how past criticism doesn’t penetrate him anymore; he’s built a resilience that lets negativity slide off, and he stays locked into his game.However, It was a chance to make history, to become the ninth England side ever to beat the All Blacks. Count that on your hands.
Redemption Complete
The Ford of 2024 and the Ford of 2025 are two different stories. He’s taken last year’s heartbreak and turned it into fuel. 100 Caps and counting. Ben Youngs, watch out.
Mental Steel
His “water off a duck’s back” line isn’t just a soundbite, it’s how he operates. Criticism rolls off him; he stays focused on the mission. Ethan Hunt levels.
Clutch Performance
Two drop goals + a big late penalty = not just points, but control. He changed the game when it mattered. Metronome Masterclass.
Legacy Secured
This isn’t just a win. It’s a statement. Ford’s leadership, composure, and craft cement him as a key figure in this England side.
Conclusion
George Ford’s journey with England is a masterclass in resilience and redemption. From missing late shots in 2024, to firing two drop goals and steering his team over the line in 2025, he’s shown he’s not just a player who can perform under pressure, but a leader who grows stronger from it. His quote, “water off a duck’s back,” captures it perfectly: he’s built to shrug off noise, stay calm, and deliver when it counts. World Cup 2027, England’s Fly Half isn't a guaranteed starting position. Say it quietly, but don’t write England off.
