Tom Palmer: hard fought victory and bungee jumps

So much of the outcome of any game depends on the collective spirit of the team - something that Ireland demonstrated to such thrilling effect in their unexpected but deserved victory over Tri-Nations champions Australia the night before.

Believe me, no-one in the England camp felt that the game against Georgia was going to be easy. In the last World Cup they nearly caused a huge upset against Ireland in the group stage and I know from personal experience the quality of some of their team who play for the top clubs in France.

I was delighted to get the opportunity to start in the second row with Simon Shaw — another bungee jumper but more on that in a bit! Our games complement each other as a pairing.

I had the responsibility of making the lineout calls and I was very happy with that department of our game. We secured all our own ball and it was this lineout possession that led to a decent proportion of our six tries. The scrum was also solid - especially given the fact that their two props are highly rated in world terms.

Our backs played with more confidence and penetration but we were all unhappy with the number of penalties we conceded at the breakdown.

The score line indicates a comfortable victory but our bodies will testify to the fact that it was a bruising encounter.

It has to be emphasised that that there are no really "easy" matches in this World Cup and no-one will be allowed to indulge in complacency prior to next week's game against Romania.

And in case you were wondering, I was one of the group who went bungee jumping from Nevis Bungy — the third biggest drop in the world. I had experienced bungee jumping before — when I was 18 — not 18 stone!

I defy anyone not to feel ...., let's just say petrified!!! But it is a huge adrenaline rush. The freefall lasts four seconds but it seems much less. After, pure elation. So, I did it a few more times!

Keep the faith,
Cheers
Tom