Planet Rugby

Giteau left relieved at Twickenham

07th November 2009 16:41

Matt Giteau England v Australia

Happy with win: Matt Giteau

England slumped to defeat in their autumn opener against Australia at Twickenham despite the best efforts of Jonny Wilkinson.

Wilkinson, playing his first Test since March last year, kicked two penalties and a drop goal to account for England's points and was at his ferocious best in defence.

But Martin Johnson's side lacked imagination and were undone by tries from Will Genia and Adam Ashley-Cooper, with Australia showing far greater purpose in attack.

"It didn't feel comfortable at any stage, it's a different England side looking to attack and they opened us up a few times," Giteau said, speaking to Sky Sports.

Asked what was said in the dressing room at half-time, with Australia 9-5 behind, Giteau added: "We felt we were doing enough but giving away too many penalties.

"We just needed to secure the ball and we felt our opportunities would come."

Meanwhile, try-scorer Genia said admitted he was delighted with his man-of-the-match performance and the victory that came with it.

"The boys told me about playing at Twickenham and coming off a winner is an amazing feeling," he said.

"We just wanted to work right through the game and we'd have them at the back end."

Comments

Damo11 says...

I really enjoyed the game. Some cracking hits, Moody and Wilkinson played superbly, great to see them back for England. I thought Australia defended brilliantly, and broke with real pace and intent. Elsom is a fantastic player, and Genia is a real find and a true successor to Gregan. I think England would have won had they dropped a goal or secured a penalty before the final try, as they'd have closed Australia out, but all in all a good match. If only England had Ward-Smith at 8 and Kennedy in the 2nd row.

Posted 20:52 07th November 2009

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