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Back in November 2024, English number 10 George Ford looked disheartened during the match.

Ford had been summoned as a substitute to support the home side secure a memorable triumph against New Zealand, however missed a crucial penalty along with a drop-kick as England were beaten by a narrow margin.

After those expensive errors, the player was required to strive to get another shot to achieve success for England.

He played only 25 minutes throughout the Six Nations tournament yet multiple strong showings, especially during the summer tour of Argentina and the United States when the Smith players had departed for Lions team responsibilities, put him firmly back as a starting option.

The veteran player did more than justify the coach's trust by selecting him versus New Zealand, but the Sale Sharks playmaker achieved a best-player showing to help England to a breakthrough triumph against the All Blacks in their own stadium ending a drought dating to 2012.

The pivotal moment came when Ford nailed two drop-goals in succession right before half-time.

It helped England overcome a 12-0 deficit to reduce the margin to 12-11 when the half ended, prior to the coach's talented substitutes repeatedly excelled in the second half to help his side to a comfortable 33-19 win.

"Recognition should be offered to the veteran members within our side, particularly Ford," the coach stated. "That period as he scored those drop-goals, he controlled the match just incredibly.

"Twelve months ago In my view George substituted and competed exceptionally well [facing the Kiwis].

"One kick struck the post and he tried a difficult drop-goal, however his play was outstanding.

"He is a phenomenal leader, an outstanding athlete and an even finer individual. We are fortunate to include him on our team."

Drop-goals 'part of the strategy'

The All Blacks began rapidly at Allianz Stadium, building a twelve-point advantage with tries by Fainga'anuku and Taylor.

After Lawrence's strong try, Ford's back-to-back three-pointers resulted in the home side returned to the changing rooms with renewed energy.

"The tough part at those times occurs as the display indicates twelve to zero, we are able to adhere to our plan and what we believe the best way to play the game is," Ford explained.

"We fought our way back into the game and we knew should we begin the final period strongly, as reserves joined, we would be in an advantageous spot.

"Although facing fifteen minutes to go, we ended up on our own line after a penalty, meaning we faced difficulties during that phase also.

"I think that's what international rugby involves - who manages best during those situations the best."

Both kicks happened within two minutes of each other as the fly-half who nailed three crucial kicks during a victory facing the Argentine team in the last global tournament, demonstrated his full century of caps experience.

Ford successfully executed two three-pointers representing Sale during a Premiership match played in tough circumstances at Bath - it is a skill he has extensively practiced.

"These attempts form part of our strategy," Ford stated further.

"The coach is such an incredible coach that he consistently advising me, and appropriately since three points are crucial during any phase of play."

Ford directed England excellently across the pitch the entire match, making smart decisions - for both attacking and defensive purposes and in finding space against the defensive line.

His trademark 'spiral bomb' also bamboozled the New Zealand player, who mishandled the ball.

Following his start in the English victory over Australia during the autumn series, Ford handed over the starting role to his replacement against Fiji a week later.

But the biggest test in terms of difficulty was presented by the experienced New Zealand team, and Ford reclaimed his spot.

England, currently enjoying 10 straight wins, face Argentina on 23 November and curiosity remains to discover if the manager opts for the younger Smith or maintains Ford.

Regardless of the selection, Ford established two years away before the World Cup that ample opportunity of rugby left in him.