Rugby Passion - but not for the English?

I was in the pub yesterday watching England play Ireland and not for the first time was struck by how cheerful, joyful even the Irish supporters were, and how quiet the English fans seemed in comparison.

And then I wondered – are they (we) quiet for a reason? Inhibited, perhaps? Even intimidated – psychologically at the very least?

I remember being in a pub in Düsseldorf during the World Cup when England were playing Wales, and looking at the unmistakeable wrist gestures from the Welsh fans when the English national anthem played, or when “Swing Low” was chanted. Was there a pub brawl? Of course not. But maybe there should have been.

What’s at the bottom of it? Do the Scots, Irish and Welsh really hate the English? And if so, why?

Maybe it’s got something to do with the turgid rugby the English have been churning out for the past – er – 6 years. Or the fact that Swing Low really is a terrible song, something to be embarrassed about. And God Save Our Gracious Queen doesn’t quite stir the blood or get the pulse racing.

My own impression it that we English are not really hated at least when it comes down to rugby, but we are buttoned-up in a way out Celtic neighbours are not. And our rugby isn’t the most entertaining. And the post-match interviews from England management and players are so up-tight and “on-message” as to be scary. So maybe time to chill-out, lighten up a bit. We don’t have to use fake tan but…..Martin Johnson, hope you are reading this. And good luck Mr.Cipriani.