Tommy Freeman’s behind-the-back pass was worked on in training
England winger Tommy Freeman showed off his stunning behind-the-back pass to set up George Furbank’s shot in Sunday’s training win over Japan
Steve Borthwick’s side mustered nine tries in final game of Autumn Nations Series Defeated Eddie Jones’ Japan 59-14 at the Allianz Stadium in Twickenham.
For their sixth try, Freeman latched on to Henry Slade’s shot and the 23-year-old made no run, instead passing the ball behind his back to Furbank, who collected the ball. Score.
“I actually did a lot of that in practice during the week! I practiced a little bit and oddly enough, the opportunity to do it came up,” Freeman said.
“You’re always trying something. If it’s the right place and the right time, you back yourself up to do it. It’s not something that comes up all the time, so I don’t go around forcing it.
“I’m moving and I’m running fast, so if I continue that movement, I might make contact.
“I probably would have tried to offload it a different way, but I thought ‘let’s give it a try’. Luckily, Furbus (Firbank) was there to catch it.”
Despite struggling defensively this autumn, particularly in narrow wins over New Zealand, Australia and South Africa, Borthwick’s side have been exciting in attack.
Fly half Marcus Smith helps lead an open-minded attacking style that differs from last year’s kicking game, which resulted in Finished third at the Rugby World Cup, This autumn, England scored 138 runs.
Captain Jamie George described Freeman’s assist as “naughty,” and rushing back Jack Van Pultfleet laughed and clapped on the bench.
However, Northampton Saints said he was only trying to do so because he was asked to express himself on the pitch.
“I’m relieved it came off because if it hadn’t come off I would have had it stuck around my neck,” he added. “We got permission to do things and put ourselves out there. Luckily, it worked out.
“There was a lot of stick in the dressing room. It would be posted everywhere, so it would be ‘Ah, try to act calm’. It came off well and I’m happy with that.”
