Without a doubt, for neutrals, the moment of England’s Calcutta Cup victory over Scotland at Twickenham on Saturday was this inspired, determined try saving chase and tackle by 33 year old Chris Paterson on flyer Ben Foden.
In recent times we’ve been spoilt when it comes to great try saving tackles, with two of note already taking place in this year’s Six Nations Championship. Last month we saw Jonny Wilkinson pull off what was an incredible hit on Italy’s Andrea Masi late in their game.
On that same weekend, Sean Lamont of Scotland stuck his hand up for his side as he produced a man of the match effort against Wales, with his stand out moment being his inspired chase back and tackle on huge Welsh centre, Jamie Roberts.
This time around it was another Scotsman, but one that is more known for his kicking ability than his defensive prowess. He’s now 33 years old and while most are bordering retirement at that age, Chris Paterson managed to show that he’s still as committed as ever, and still has some serious pace as he somehow chased down England’s speedy fullback, Ben Foden.
It looked to be a try for all money, and just when you thought the game would be over as a contest, Paterson produced this effort, the likes of which will be talked about in Scottish rugby folklore for years to come. Scottish fans cheered, England fans looked on in shock, and neutrals jumped up and down at having seen one of the great moments in Six Nations history unfold.
Maybe that’s a bit dramatic, but the tackle was superb, and as with the previous two mentioned earlier, it had this rugby fan up on his feet, punching the air in delight, grinning ear to ear.
You can re-watch the other two tackles via the related posts links below this video.
:: Related Posts ::
Sean Lamont’s try saving tackle on Jamie Roberts
Jonny Wilkinson’s trysaving tackle on Andrea Masi
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