RFU issue statement after dismal England Autumn campaign

The Rugby Football Union (RFU) have issued a statement this Sunday following a dire Autumn Nations Series campaign in which England won just a single game.

England suffered a humiliating defeat by South Africa at Twickenham as they lost a repeat of the 2019 World Cup final 27-13.

Eddie Jones’ men delivered the worst performance of an autumn campaign consisting of a solitary victory over Japan as the 14-man Springboks, inspired by half-backs Faf de Klerk and Damian Willemse, dominated.

The defeat completes the nation’s least successful year since 2008, with Jones presiding over six defeats, one draw and five wins in 12 outings.

Now the RFU have reacted, informing fans of their plans to ‘hold a series of meetings’ following England’s dismal campaign, although there is no explicit mention of head coach Eddie Jones.

The statement reads: “The RFU review panel which includes board and executive members along with independent, former players and coaches will hold a series of meetings in the next two weeks to discuss the Autumn Nations campaign and how improvements can be made ahead of the Six Nations.”

Bill Sweeney, Rugby Football Union Chief Executive Officer said: “We would like to thank England fans for their patience and support, it matters to us how they feel. Like them we are really disappointed with the results of the Autumn Nations Series. Despite strong individual performances and some great new talent coming into the team, the overall results are not where we expect them to be.”

A clearly deflated Jones accepted responsibility for the defeat.

“We want to win. We don’t want to get beat by a big score to South Africa and don’t want to have the worst record since 2008 so it is a problem but I accept full responsibility for that,” Jones said.

“Obviously on results we are not happy but I feel like we are building a really good base to have a really good go at the World Cup, a really good go.

“A number of young players got great experience today and they’ll come back better players for that. We’ve got other players coming back to form, some of our more senior players and we’re not far away.”

additional reporting PA