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Back in November 2024, English number 10 Ford appeared disappointed during the match.

Ford had been summoned from the bench to help the hosts close out a famous win facing the Kiwis, however failed to convert a decisive kick plus a drop-goal attempt as his side fell short by a narrow margin.

In the wake of those pivotal failures, the player was required to strive to get another shot at delivering glory to the English team.

He played only 25 minutes in the recent Six Nations however a series of strong showings, notably in the summer matches versus Argentine and American teams while Fin Smith and Marcus Smith were away on Lions team responsibilities, put him firmly back as a starting option.

At 32 years old fully validated Steve Borthwick's faith by selecting him versus New Zealand, plus the club standout achieved a best-player showing to help the hosts to their initial victory over New Zealand in their own stadium ending a drought dating to 2012.

The pivotal moment came when Ford converted two drop-goals in succession immediately preceding halftime.

It helped England overcome a 12-0 deficit to narrow the gap to 12-11 when the half ended, ahead of the manager's skilled reserves again delivered after halftime to help his side to a comfortable 33-19 victory.

"Credit must be given to the senior players on our squad, notably George," the coach stated. "That period where he hit those crucial kicks, he managed the game remarkably well.

"Twelve months ago In my view George entered and performed really well [facing the Kiwis].

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

"He is a phenomenal leader, a superb performer and an even better person. We are honored to include him in our squad."

Drop-goals 'always in the plan'

The Kiwis began rapidly during the match, racing into a twelve-point advantage with tries by Leicester Fainga'anuku and Codie Taylor.

Subsequent to Ollie Lawrence's powerful finish, Ford's consecutive drop-kicks meant the hosts returned to the locker room with psychological advantage.

"The difficult aspect during those periods occurs as the display indicates a twelve-point deficit, we can stick to our guns and our philosophy the superior method to perform is," Ford said.

"We fought our way back into the game and we understood were we to commence the second half well, as reserves joined, we were in a favorable situation.

"Even with fifteen minutes to go, we were positioned near our try line with a yellow card, so we had challenges in that instance too.

"In my opinion that represents international rugby involves - who can deal with those moments most effectively."

The two attempts occurred within close succession as the fly-half who successfully converted three drop-kicks in a win versus Argentina during the 2023 World Cup, showed all his 104-cap experience.

Ford hit two drop-goals for Sale in a league contest conducted in tough circumstances versus Bath - this represents an ability he has mastered thoroughly.

"The drop-kicks are consistently planned," Ford continued.

"Borthwick represents a phenomenal leader since he continually in my ear about it, and appropriately as three points is valuable at any stage of play."

Ford guided England excellently around the field the complete contest, making smart decisions - both to compete and locating gaps against the defensive line.

His characteristic high spiral kick further confused the New Zealand player, who couldn't collect.

Following his start in England's win against Australia on 1 November, Ford passed on the starting role to Fin Smith during the Fiji match the following week.

Yet the most significant examination theoretically this season came against the experienced New Zealand team, so Ford returned to his spot.

The English team, presently maintaining an unbeaten streak of ten, meet Argentina this month creating intrigue to determine whether the coach returns for the younger Smith or continues with Ford.

Whatever choice occurs, Ford established with two years remaining prior to global competition that significant amounts of play remaining within him.