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During November 2024, English number 10 Ford cut a dejected figure on the Allianz Stadium turf.

The replacement was brought on off the sidelines to assist the home side complete an historic victory versus the All Blacks, however failed to convert a decisive kick and drop-goal as England lost by two points.

Following those costly misses, Ford had to work hard to earn another opportunity to bring victory for the national side.

His playing time was limited to 25 minutes during this year's Six Nations however a series of impressive performances, particularly on the warm-weather tour against Argentina and the USA when the Smith players had departed for Lions team responsibilities, returned him solidly among starting candidates.

The veteran player not only repaid Steve Borthwick's faith through his selection against the All Blacks, plus the club standout achieved a best-player showing to assist England to a breakthrough triumph against the All Blacks on home soil since 2012.

The decisive instant in the game Ford converted consecutive drop-kicks right before half-time.

This enabled the English 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 during the final period to support England to a comfortable 33-19 victory.

"You have to give credit to the veteran members within our side, particularly Ford," the coach stated. "During that phase as he scored those drop-kicks, he controlled the match remarkably well.

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

"A attempt hit the upright while he attempted a difficult drop-goal, however his play was outstanding.

"He's an exceptional captain, an outstanding athlete and an even better person. We are honored to have him in our squad."

Drop-goals 'part of the strategy'

New Zealand commenced strongly in the stadium, surging to a twelve-point advantage with tries by Fainga'anuku and Taylor.

After Lawrence's strong try, Ford's consecutive drop-kicks resulted in the home side entered the halftime break with renewed energy.

"The tough part at those times is, when the scoreboard says twelve to zero, we can stick to our guns and what we believe the best way to play the game is," Ford said.

"We got ourselves back into the game and we recognized should we begin the final period strongly, with substitutes entering, we found ourselves in a favorable situation.

"Even with fifteen minutes to go, we ended up defending our goal line after a penalty, meaning we faced difficulties there as well.

"I believe this illustrates Test rugby is - which team can handle in those circumstances the best."

Each effort happened within close succession as the fly-half who nailed three crucial kicks in a win versus Argentina at the 2023 Rugby World Cup, displayed his complete century of caps experience.

Ford successfully executed two drop-goals with Sale in a league contest played in tough circumstances at Bath - this represents an ability he has extensively practiced.

"It [the drop-goals] is always in the plan," Ford continued.

"Steve is such an incredible coach since he continually in my ear about it, and appropriately since three points are crucial throughout the match of the game."

Ford marshalled England excellently around the field the entire match, making smart decisions - both in contestable situations and identifying openings in the opposition's territory.

His signature tactical bomb further confused the New Zealand player, who couldn't collect.

After beginning the English victory against Australia during the autumn series, Ford passed on the number 10 jersey to the younger Smith for the Fiji victory a week later.

However the greatest challenge in terms of difficulty was presented by the three-time world champions, and Ford reclaimed his spot.

The national side, now on a run of ten consecutive victories, face Argentina in late November and curiosity remains to determine if the manager opts for the younger Smith or continues with Ford.

Regardless of the selection, Ford established with two years remaining prior to global competition that significant amounts of career ahead for him.