Eddie Butler: Aerial ping-pong not a bad thing

Friday 19 February 2010
Published By: David Rawlings
Six Nations > France

In recent weeks, many critics have criticised the on-field kicking which has increasingly seeped into the international, game, with some pundits labelling it "aerial ping-pong".

However, Eddie Butler, writing for the Guardian, said that the tendency is not necessarily a bad thing and can often be used to gain an advantage, as in the case of the French.

He pointed out that in the last round of fixtures, France's victory against Ireland was largely thanks to territorial kicking, arguing that hoofing has now taken over as preamble to the next phase.

"We saw an excellent performance by France against the spirited defending champions of Ireland. We had Italy coming close to a first victory over England, and, by common consent, one of the most dramatic matches of all time between Wales and Scotland," Butler said.

Meanwhile, Paul Sackey will get the chance to experience French rugby for himself after signing a two-year contract with Top 14 club Toulon, which will see him team up with England colleague Jonny Wilkinson.

Posted by David Rawlings