England manager Martin Johnson compared Chris Ashton to Jason Robinson after the winger’s four-try display against Italy. The former Rugby league player was close to reconverting from Rugby Union altogether just 18 months ago after an unsure start with Northampton, but with 9 tries in his first 9 tests since his debut against France last season, he will be delighted with his decision to continue.
Ashton’s performances have been a breath of fresh air to the England camp, as he reached a landmark by grabbing the first four-try haul in RBS 6 Nations history. Despite Ashton’s performances, his signature ‘swan dive’ celebrations aren’t going down as well with the England management, as they are with the England fans. Johnson had warned the informed winger not to carry out the risky celebration but the 23-year-old, who now has six tries in this year’s championships, defied his coach’s wishes. Fans following the goalwire livescore certainly enjoyed it.
In light of the celebration Ashton says his emotional instincts took over him and hoped his manager wouldn’t see his threats out after Johnson jokingly suggested what a way to play your last game for England.
England’s form under Martin Johnson is becoming more impressive with each game played. The contrast between England’s Twickenham performance last Saturday and their one-dimensional display against Italy in Rome 12 months ago could not have been more striking. Johnson puts this down to the way the breakdown has been refereed in the last 12 months, claiming it has given the team more attacking opportunities with the players having the licence to go and play. England’s latest scores suggest they are more than capable of landing the Grand Slam.
With Ashton’s form, fans will be hoping to see more of the flying celebration as England face a possible Grand Slam decider against France at Twickenham on February 26.
And with the World Cup on the horizon, Ashton will be hoping to follow in Jason Robinsons footsteps by bringing home the Web Ellis cup from New Zealand this summer.