Ellis Genge Blasts ‘Out of Touch’ Critics Over England Style Backlash: ‘Blew My Mind’

Ellis Genge Fires Back at Critics After England’s Narrow Win Over Scotland

England vice-captain Ellis Genge has slammed the backlash against his team’s gritty 16-15 Calcutta Cup victory over Scotland, their first since 2020. Despite securing two consecutive one-point wins (against France and Scotland) in the 2024 Six Nations, England faced boos from Twickenham fans and criticism for their pragmatic style. Genge, a 30-year-old prop, expressed disbelief at the negativity, stating, “We won two games on the bounce and you’re upset about it—I don’t get it.”

[Image: Ellis Genge during the Scotland match, caption: "Genge defended England’s win despite criticism of their playing style."]

Results Over Razzle-Dazzle
Genge highlighted the contrasting reactions to wins and losses. When England lost 37-34 to Australia in late 2023, their attacking flair was praised, but the defeat stung. *“Who gives a f** if you lose while playing ‘brilliantly’?” he argued. “Would fans prefer a team that wins ugly or loses spectacularly?” He emphasized Test rugby’s harsh reality: style often bows to survival.

[Image: Scotland’s Finn Russell kicking, caption: "A late missed kick by Finn Russell spared England heavier criticism."]

Defending the Game Plan
Critics accused England of excessive kicking, but Genge noted Scotland kicked more. “They’re called ‘brilliant’ for moving the ball wide, but we’re slammed for winning,” he said. He praised England’s adaptability, citing their 2023 win over Ireland with expansive play but stressing that “nitty-gritty” tactics are sometimes essential. “Test rugby isn’t Bristol Bears at Ashton Gate. If you want chaos, go there.”

[Image: Steve Borthwick coaching, caption: "Borthwick’s tactics have drawn ire despite recent wins."]

The English Critique Culture
Genge and assistant coach Kevin Sinfield compared the scrutiny to England’s football team, often criticized even when winning. “It’s an English thing,” Sinfield remarked. Genge added, “After four years of trauma, winning the Calcutta Cup should be celebrated, not dissected.”

[Image: England fans cheering, caption: "Fans booed despite England reclaiming the Cup after five years."]

Looking Ahead to Italy
With Italy next, Genge urged focus: “If we’re freed from backlash, we’ll perform.” France’s 73-24 thrashing of Italy sets high expectations, but Genge cautioned against “gung-ho” approaches. “We can’t afford to get caught up in proving a point.”

Family First
Amid the drama, Genge juggles family life. His toddler had chickenpox, and his wife is 37 weeks pregnant. “If she goes into labor before the Wales game, I’ll be there,” he vowed. “Family comes first—always.”

[Image: Genge training, caption: "Genge balances rugby with family priorities."]

Conclusion
For Genge, winning matters most. While acknowledging fan desires for flair, he insists England’s progress—built on resilience—deserves credit. “It’s a results business. We’re winning—why the bitter taste?” As pressure mounts, his message is clear: judge the scoreboard, not the style.

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