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In November 2024, national team playmaker Ford appeared disappointed at Allianz Stadium.

He was called upon off the sidelines to support the home side complete a memorable triumph against New Zealand, yet was unable to score a decisive kick along with a drop-kick as England fell short by two points.

Following those costly misses, Ford had to work hard to get another shot to achieve success for the national side.

His playing time was limited to 25 minutes during this year's Six Nations yet multiple strong showings, notably in the warm-weather tour versus Argentine and American teams when the Smith players had departed for British and Irish Lions duty, put him firmly back as a starting option.

The veteran player did more than justify the manager's confidence by selecting him versus New Zealand, plus the club standout achieved a best-player showing to help the home team to a first win over New Zealand at home for the first time since 2012.

The decisive instant in the game Ford successfully executed consecutive drop-kicks immediately preceding halftime.

This enabled the English overcome a 12-0 deficit to reduce the margin to 12-11 at the break, before Borthwick's star-studded bench again delivered during the final period to help his side to a convincing 33-19 win.

"Recognition should be offered to the experienced players within our side, especially George," the manager commented. "During that phase where he hit those drop-kicks, he directed play absolutely brilliantly.

"Last year I believed Ford substituted and competed exceptionally well [facing the Kiwis].

"A kick hit the post while he attempted a drop-goal under pressure, but he played really well.

"He's a tremendous guide, an outstanding athlete and an even finer individual. We are privileged to feature him on our team."

Drop-kicks 'consistently planned'

The All Blacks began rapidly during the match, building a twelve-point advantage with tries by two key players.

After Lawrence's strong try, Ford's consecutive drop-goals ensured England entered the locker room with renewed energy.

"The difficult aspect in those moments is, when the scoreboard says twelve to zero, we can stick to our guns and our convictions the best way to perform is," Ford stated.

"We got ourselves back into contention and we recognized were we to commence the latter half effectively, with the bench coming on, we would be in a good position.

"Although facing fifteen minutes to go, we were positioned near our try line after a penalty, thus we encountered obstacles during that phase also.

"In my opinion that represents international rugby involves - who can deal in those circumstances superiorly."

The two attempts occurred within two minutes of each other while the number 10 who nailed three crucial kicks in a win against Argentina in the last global tournament, displayed his complete century of caps experience.

Ford converted two drop-goals with Sale in a league contest conducted in tough circumstances versus Bath - it is a skill he has mastered thoroughly.

"The drop-kicks is always in the plan," Ford stated further.

"Steve is such a phenomenal leader since he continually reminding me, and rightly so since three points prove important throughout the match of the game."

Ford directed his side brilliantly around the field the complete contest, making smart decisions - both in contestable situations and in finding space against the defensive line.

His characteristic 'spiral bomb' also bamboozled the New Zealand player, who couldn't collect.

Having started England's win over Australia during the autumn series, Ford relinquished the fly-half position to the younger Smith during the Fiji match the following week.

Yet the most significant examination in terms of difficulty occurred versus the experienced New Zealand team, so Ford returned to his spot.

The national side, currently enjoying ten consecutive victories, play against Argentina this month and it will be interesting to learn if Borthwick goes back to Fin Smith or persists with Ford.

Regardless of the selection, Ford demonstrated ahead of the next tournament prior to global competition that ample opportunity of play remaining within him.