Eddie Jones voiced his disapproval of Twickenham’s in-stadium experience while speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, objecting to a big-screen prompt telling spectators when to make noise. The Japan head coach sat with a neutral expression in the coaching box as the message repeated during his team’s 78-15 defeat against England.
A Festive Atmosphere and Will Joseph’s Return
With junior tickets priced at £15, the stadium hosted a younger crowd, higher noise levels, and a lighter mood. England delivered plenty of entertainment on the pitch, scoring 13 tries in total, led by Will Joseph with five scores.
The 24-year-old earned his only previous cap under Jones during the summer 2022 tour to Australia as a teenager. His career experienced delays due to game time and fitness struggles at Harlequins following London Irish’s bankruptcy, alongside an auto-immune condition that caused hearing loss in his left ear. After moving to Gloucester, he has excelled as a dynamic attacking threat in the wing and midfield positions.
According to BBC Sport, England selected him out wide to replace the injured Immanuel Feyi-Waboso. Former England wing Chris Ashton noted on BBC Radio 5 Live that Joseph plays similarly to Feyi-Waboso through his acceleration and elusiveness. Joseph expressed that navigating the past four years proved challenging, but he enjoyed the journey to return and looks forward to future opportunities.
Squad Standouts and New Zealand Preparations
Comparisons arose with Henry Arundell, who also featured as a teenage apprentice on the 2022 Australia tour and scored five tries against Chile at the Rugby World Cup. While Arundell has yet to prove himself in tougher matches, Joseph’s combination of speed and intelligence could suit the Test arena.
England head coach Steve Borthwick faces a decision on whether to select Joseph against New Zealand next Saturday. Other standout performers included George Martin, who led the team in carries and tackles following his return from a long injury layoff, alongside robust displays from Ellis Genge, Maro Itoje, and Max Ojomoh. Henry Pollock also contributed defensively and at the breakdown.
Borthwick awaits medical updates regarding Ollie Chessum, Seb Atkinson, and George Furbank ahead of the fixture against the All Blacks. Following a fourth consecutive victory, Borthwick praised the team’s attacking speed, decision-making, and the excellent atmosphere generated by supporters.
Eddie Jones offered a lighthearted reaction to his former player’s performance at the final whistle. “It kills me that Will Joseph, I gave him his first cap, he scores five tries against me. Now that’s not being very loyal, is it?” Jones joked, adding that Joseph has always been destined to be a quality player.
