Grand Slam Years: England: Wales v England February 2003

England proved too strong away to Wales, a 26-9 win in 2003 showing their intentions before claiming the 2003 Grand Slam on the final day of the championship away to Ireland.

[@darthmong7196]

Even with Steve Walsh refereeing they still won comfortably. That was when I realised this England team was special.

[@IanHaywardCalvados]

"Steve Walsh has had a good game so far...." - and you don't hear that too often!

[@vrs010]

This England team was an absolute beast.

[@oliversmiddy840]

Wilkinson's distribution was always so underrated. Such a good passer off both hands.

[@jimm89]

Wilkinson’s drop goal is a relic of a bygone era. Some would argue rightly, you just wouldn’t go for that now. Pick and go, release the backs, or just wait for the whistle, I judge none of those options - intelligent rugby in the circumstances should be applauded. But Wilkinson thought in a way that no other 10 thought and he had the technical ability to back it up. For me Carter was the best at running a back line but Wilkinson was the best at reading the game. There are so many examples of things that other 10s just wouldn’t see. See also the chip into the vacant should-be-full-back space against the Kiwis. Genius not because it was a complex move, but because why oh why was he even looking for it?

[@randyschwaggins]

In 2002 this England team had claim to be the best team to have EVER played the game...they really were that good

[@Rasperdan]

All of our home nations has had our moments ... looking forward to six nations :) ... Ireland and England are looking good. Never write off the French ... Wales and Scotland seem to be solid and Italy are always improving ... Going to be an interesting 6 Nations :)

[@geoffbroad]

Great win!

[@davidhaspell6417]

A whole rugby vid with no box kicks from either team. Rugby was infinitely better to watch back then!

[@iangascoigne8231]

“Good tackle by Shanklin” He’d probably get sent off for that now.

[@vonteflon]

10:24

[@leemorgan8478]

Take nothing away from England then they were great & being a Welshman & British I cheered them on in the WC final & it's a myth that the Welsh hate the English it's all banter & good fun .

[@mattfiretrainer3412]

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 Jonny Wilkinson was a great team back then

[@KmT81]

Full match plz ?

[@andrewharman787]

Dark days for Wales back then. I fear they may return after Gatland departs.

[@caiotefu9856]

Quite right Ollie... Quite right! ♡♥♡ lol =) .

[@oliprj8676]

I swear 85% of Greenwoods England tries were against Wales

[@noodles169]

Players look tiny compared to players now

[@stui0ham]

@

[@DENNIS5831]

wilkinson years