England go into the quarter finals with no pressure but some optimism. Tonight's win over Tonga was their most convicing performance in a competitive match since they beat France in the Six Nations.
Brian Ashton's team looked much happier in possession, considerably more creative and tactically more astute.
The forwards were off-loading to support runners which was pleasing to see. Nick Easter had a solid game and continued to edge ahead of Lawrence Dallaglio,
The backs looked slightly more dangerous too, Even Mathew Tait got in on the act, though admittedly against a tiring Tongan side. Paul Sackey confirmed his status as the country's pre-eminent winger.
But most pleasing was the performance of Jonny Wilkinson who, goal kicking apart, gave a much more positive account of himself.
The punt to the wing for Sackey's first try required great vision and world class execution and he seemed so much more assured in the pocket.
But for me the axis with Olly Barkley still isn't working. The centre partnership lacks balance.I just don't know what's the best thing to do against Australia. Andy Farrell possibly?