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During November 2024, English number 10 George Ford appeared disappointed on the Allianz Stadium turf.

The replacement was brought on from the bench to support the home side close out a famous win facing the Kiwis, yet missed a crucial penalty and drop-goal as his side were beaten in a close contest.

In the wake of those pivotal failures, the player was required to strive to secure another chance at delivering glory for the national side.

He saw just 25 minutes of action during this year's Six Nations but a string of impressive performances, particularly on the summer tour of Argentina and the United States when the Smith players had departed for Lions tour commitments, put him firmly back as a starting option.

At 32 years old fully validated the manager's confidence through his selection versus New Zealand, and the Sharks star achieved a best-player showing to help the hosts to their initial victory versus the Kiwis at home ending a drought dating to 2012.

The crucial point occurred as Ford converted back-to-back drop-goals right before half-time.

This assisted England overcome a 12-0 deficit to trail 12-11 when the half ended, ahead of the manager's skilled reserves again delivered during the final period to help his side to a decisive 33-19 triumph.

"Recognition should be offered to the senior players within our side, particularly Ford," Borthwick told. "During that phase where he hit those drop-goals, he controlled the match remarkably well.

"Twelve months ago I thought George entered and performed very effectively [against New Zealand].

"A attempt hit the upright while he attempted a drop-goal under pressure, however his play was outstanding.

"He's a tremendous guide, a brilliant player plus a better human being. We are fortunate to have him in our squad."

Drop-goals 'part of the strategy'

The Kiwis began rapidly during the match, surging to a substantial early margin through scores from Leicester Fainga'anuku and Codie Taylor.

Subsequent to Ollie Lawrence's impressive score, Ford's back-to-back drop-goals ensured England bounced into the locker room with psychological advantage.

"The tough part in those moments occurs as the display indicates 12-0, we must maintain to our guns and what we believe the optimal approach to compete is," Ford said.

"We fought our way back into contention and we knew were we to commence the latter half effectively, with the bench coming on, we found ourselves in a good position.

"Despite having fifteen minutes to go, we ended up near our try line following a card, thus we encountered obstacles during that phase also.

"I think that's what Test rugby is - who can deal during those situations superiorly."

Both kicks came within close succession as the fly-half who executed three drop-goals in a win facing the Argentine team during the 2023 World Cup, showed all his international experience.

Ford converted two three-pointers with Sale in a league contest played in tough circumstances versus Bath - this demonstrates a talent he has mastered thoroughly.

"These attempts are consistently planned," Ford added.

"The coach is such a phenomenal leader since he continually advising me, and correctly so since three points is valuable during any phase of the game."

Ford directed his team superbly across the pitch all game, kicking smartly - for both attacking and defensive purposes and in finding space against the defensive line.

His characteristic high spiral kick further confused the opposing fullback, who couldn't collect.

After beginning England's win against Australia during the autumn series, Ford passed on the fly-half position to his replacement for the Fiji victory a week later.

Yet the most significant examination on paper this autumn occurred versus the three-time world champions, and Ford reclaimed his spot.

England, presently maintaining ten consecutive victories, play against Argentina on 23 November and curiosity remains to determine whether the coach returns for the younger Smith or continues with Ford.

Regardless of the selection, Ford proved ahead of the next tournament prior to global competition that there is plenty of career ahead for him.