Quote: BrisbaneRhino "I have noticed that the 'England's pack' as superstars mythology has quietened down a bit.....
Realistically if Oz/NZ play well England have next to no chance. The only chance they have is if either of those sides play well below par. Whilst on paper that draw may look a 'good' result for England, I think you'll find it means that neither Oz or NZ will take their foot off the gas against England, as they'll have to beat them to ensure they get to the final.
Probably the best England can hope for is to absolutely play out of their skins and give both Aus and NZ a game, and for some of the young English players to come of age and realise how high the standards are that they need to achieve to really compete.'"
To be fair there's quite a few English fans who don't feel our pack are superstars either, rather that on the balance of things they're certainly a lot stronger than our backs - hence the reason that people want to put hope in the forwards rather than elsewhere.
I agree with what you say, the draw result was probably the worst thing that could have happened for England as both Aus and NZ will be going for the win even more now.