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In November 2024, English number 10 George Ford appeared disappointed on the Allianz Stadium turf.

The replacement was brought on as a substitute to support England secure a memorable triumph versus the All Blacks, however failed to convert a crucial penalty and drop-goal as his side lost by a narrow margin.

In the wake of those pivotal failures, the player was required to strive to earn another opportunity at delivering glory for the national side.

He played only 25 minutes during this year's Six Nations but a string of impressive performances, notably in the warm-weather tour versus Argentine and American teams as Fin Smith and Marcus Smith had departed for Lions team responsibilities, reestablished him strongly among starting candidates.

At 32 years old did more than justify Steve Borthwick's faith by selecting him facing the Kiwis, and the Sharks star achieved a best-player showing to assist England to a first win against the All Blacks at home for the first time since 2012.

The decisive instant in the game Ford converted back-to-back drop-goals just before the break.

It helped England bounce back from being down 12-0 to narrow the gap to 12-11 by halftime, ahead of the manager's skilled reserves again delivered after halftime to assist the team to a decisive 33-19 triumph.

"You have to give credit to the experienced players within our side, notably George," Borthwick told. "During that phase as he scored those drop-goals, he directed play just incredibly.

"Last year In my view George entered and performed really well [versus the All Blacks].

"A attempt hit the upright while he attempted a drop-goal under pressure, yet he performed excellently.

"He's a tremendous guide, a superb performer plus a better human being. We are fortunate to have him within our roster."

Drop-goals 'part of the strategy'

The All Blacks commenced strongly at Allianz Stadium, building a substantial early margin through scores from Fainga'anuku and Taylor.

Subsequent to Ollie Lawrence's strong try, Ford's consecutive drop-goals ensured England bounced into the changing rooms with psychological advantage.

"The tough part during those periods is, when the scoreboard says twelve to zero, we can stick to our plan and our philosophy the superior method to play the game is," Ford stated.

"We got ourselves back into contention and we knew if we started the latter half effectively, with substitutes entering, we were in a good position.

"Although facing fifteen minutes to go, we found ourselves defending our goal line with a yellow card, thus we encountered obstacles in that instance too.

"In my opinion that represents international rugby involves - who manages best in those circumstances most effectively."

Both kicks happened within a two-minute span as Ford who successfully converted three crucial kicks in a win facing the Argentine team at the 2023 Rugby World Cup, demonstrated his full 104-cap experience.

Ford successfully executed two drop-kicks for Sale in a league contest occurring during difficult conditions against Bath - this represents an ability he is well-practised in.

"These attempts form part of our strategy," Ford added.

"Steve is such an outstanding manager that he is always in my ear about it, and appropriately because three points is valuable at any stage of play."

Ford marshalled England excellently across the pitch all game, making smart decisions - both in contestable situations and locating gaps against the defensive line.

His signature 'spiral bomb' further confused Beauden Barrett, who couldn't collect.

After beginning the English victory against Australia in early November, Ford relinquished the number 10 jersey to the younger Smith for the Fiji victory the following week.

However the greatest challenge in terms of difficulty was presented by the experienced New Zealand team, with Ford regaining his position.

England, currently enjoying ten consecutive victories, play against Argentina in late November and it will be interesting to learn if Borthwick goes back for the younger Smith or continues with Ford.

Whatever choice occurs, Ford established ahead of the next tournament before the World Cup that there is plenty of play remaining in him.