The day when Clive Woodward, the former England boss, headed a football during a game has been brought back into focus. This unconventional move had social media buzzing recently after Joe Marler’s ‘assist’ for England against Japan.
Woodward was known for his love of wacky ideas as a player and this incident is one such example that stands out in history. His former Leicester teammate Steve Kenney recalls the event with amusement and awe.
Football fans might be familiar with headers being used to score goals or pass the ball in their sport but it isn’t something you’d typically see on a rugby field! Yet, Woodward made it happen and left everyone surprised.
As Kenney explains, “It was an unusual sight indeed!” He continues to share how they were playing against another team who weren’t expecting such an unpredictable move from them. The surprise element worked in their favor as they managed to gain possession of the ball thanks to Woodward’s quick thinking.
“The other team didn’t know what hit them,” says Kenney fondly recalling that memorable match where rules met creativity head-on (pun intended). 🏉
When asked about why he chose to use his head instead of sticking with traditional techniques like kicking or passing using hands, Woodward simply stated that he wanted to try something different; pushing boundaries was always part of his strategy while playing sports.
In retrospect, we can say that this bold approach by him paved way for many more innovative strategies not only on individual levels but also changed how teams strategized their moves during games at large scale tournaments later on.
Joe Marler’s recent header ‘assist’, though unintentional unlike Woodwards deliberate act years ago, echoes similar sentiments – sometimes all you need is some out-of-the-box thinking even if it means literally using your head!
While there are no plans currently underway making heading balls legal anytime soon in Rugby Union Rules according to International Rugby Board officials; instances like these surely add a dash of humor and unpredictability to the game, making it more entertaining for viewers worldwide.
In conclusion, whether it’s Woodward heading a ball during a match or Marler’s accidental ‘assist’, these incidents serve as reminders that sometimes in sport – as in life – you need to be willing to take risks and think outside the box. And who knows? Maybe one day we’ll see headers becoming an official part of Rugby too! Until then, let’s enjoy these spontaneous moments that make sports so much fun.
