4. Slade wins breakdown penalty

 Mapimpi attacks England’s left but slips in front of Slade. Slade bends and dips to get over the ball. Kwagga Smith flies in to win the battle of the “dip” and get in over the ball and secure it. Henry, using cunning instead of strength, feints and pulls away ever so slightly. Kwagga leaves his “feet” on entering the breakdown – penalty England. Slade’s minor movement is not enough to be considered “pulling away” – which it clearly was. But the picture painted to the referee goes England’s way.

5. Slade’s left peg

Not used a huge amount but it is there as a back-up. It is used to kick close to the corner when England get penalties near the right-hand touchline. He is the only left-footer amongst the recognised kickers in the England team, unless Elliot Daly comes back into the mix. A hugely important characteristic.

6. Second-half defensive excellence

South Africa go off the top of a lineout and send Kolisi up Smith’s channel. Slade, who is defending outside Smith, must not commit to support Smith’s tackle or overcommit, otherwise the space on the outside will be exposed. He needs to be patient, trust the tackle will be made, stay square, and keep his connectivity with Marchant on his outside. At the same time, however, Slade must be aware of the effectiveness of Smith’s tackle which, in this instance, the young fly-half misses.

Kolisi looks to sprint clear but Slade, with real balance, knows he can now step in and make the tackle as the Springbok captain has committed to carry and doesn’t look as if he will distribute. As shown below, Kolisi is downed and England can reset their defensive formation at the breakdown. Another piece of play that looks easy but needs trust, patience, and a cracking technique.