Wilkinson’s drop goal

Telstra Stadium, extra time, Australia defending at home. Jonny Wilkinson, on his weaker foot, drops a goal. 20-17. England are world champions. Martin Johnson lifts the cup. A sport that had been sold as southern-hemisphere weather gets a northern winner.

English rugby’s professional era needed a night that was not a near miss. This is a drop goal from a man who looks like he has been bracing for the kick his whole life.

Australia are gracious and gutted. The clip still plays in English pubs when the present is less kind. 2003 is the ceiling a lot of teams are still trying to see again.