Rugby Battle

Posted by Rebecca Ford Oct 15, 2007

So, England won the match – and they’re (amazingly) into the final of the rugby world cup. Not many people thought they had a chance against the French, who’d been playing very well. However England were, saved – yet again- by Jonny Wilkinson’s magic kicking skills. Which means that here in London next Saturday night we’re going to be sitting on the edge of our sofas, and no doubt screeching at the TV. Watching England play is always guaranteed to raise the nation’s blood pressure – especially during football matches when it goes to penalties. Other teams always look as if they’ve – well, got together and practised. Cheek really.

The rugby semi was against the French – England’s old sporting ‘enemy’. The win has given some of the papers the chance to bring out lines about ‘the spirit of Agincourt’.

France might have lost the match, but they won (as they always do) – the battle of the national anthems. La Marseillaise is easily the most stirring national anthem in the world. Just hearing it makes you want to take to the streets. It has to give the French an advantage on the sports field. England, however, are stuck with ‘God Save the Queen’ – which is sung to a tune more likely to send you to sleep. It’s not even England’s national anthem – it’s Britain’s. Bring on La Marseillaise: ‘Marchant, Marchant…’