Farrell’s cheeky smirk during haka
Before the physical game started between the All Blacks and England at the Rugby World Cup semifinal, the mind games were under way.
During the All Blacks’ haka, the English side responded by standing in a V formation. But it wasn’t their stance that English fans were excited by, it was captain Owen Farrell’s smirk during the challenge.
Standing at the head of the team, Farrell stared down his opponents with his hands on his hips and a smile on his face.
Farrell’s response wasn’t missed by eagle-eyed fans who said it was a sign England were playing for keeps.
‘‘He knew,’’ wrote British TV personality Piers Morgan.
‘‘The moment I saw Owen
Farrell smirk at the haka I knew it would be England’s day,’’ one fan wrote.
The idea to respond to the iconic and intimidating haka was made by coach Eddie Jones, according to bruising centre Manu Tuilagi.
‘‘Everyone wanted to show that we were ready and together. It was something different that I think Eddie [Jones] suggested,’’ the BBC reported.
Farrell said: ‘‘We didn’t just want to stand in a flat line and let them come at us.’’
England supporters also played their part in drowning out the haka as they bellowed out a rendition of Swing Low Sweet Chariot.
However, referee Nigel Owens had to warn England to stay back as World Rugby rules stipulate opposing teams must stay within their half during the haka.
England went on to beat the All Blacks 19-7 and secure their place in the final.