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This marks a interesting feature of England's November perfect record that no new players made their first cap during the series of matches, something not seen in a quarter of a century. However, Max Ojomoh's showing against the Argentine side while earning his second cap felt like the arrival of a major talent.

Star Display in Tight Victory

He proved to be the star turn in what was England's least convincing performance of the November series. He scored the first try before setting up the other two. The setup for Immanuel Feyi-Waboso via a delightful long pass was the highlight play of the opening period. Similarly, his quick offload to the center for England's third try was equally impressive, capping off a excellent first outing at the home stadium for the 25-year-old.

Ojomoh possesses the kind of versatile skillset that all coaches desire from their inside-centre. He can run, kick and pass, and he has featured at number ten and at multiple midfield roles for Bath this season.

Rapid Ascent and Future Prospects

It is just a little over a week since Steve Borthwick could have believed he had discovered his midfield duo for the long term. But, the best compliment that can be given to the young star is that Borthwick may have to think again. Ojomoh was initially selected to an national team four years ago, but had to bide his time until the final match of the overseas trip to make his debut. Injuries to other players paved the way for him to start here, and he surely will be in contention for a third cap when the squad reconvene to begin their championship quest in the new year.

• Multiple Abilities: Can play number ten and midfield.
• Key Contributions: Scored one try and set up two more.
• Timely Impact: Delivered when others were unavailable.

Team Context and Wider Significance

Where might the team have fared against their opponents without Ojomoh? Undoubtedly they rode their luck and maybe it is no coincidence that he was their best player. England experienced an inevitable drop-off in intensity following a major win over New Zealand. Perhaps the coach ought to have made more changes.

Some perspective is required, however. It is tempting to criticize the side for their inability to inject much urgency into this contest, or for almost throwing away a game they were dominating. But, this result completes a perfect record of four autumn fixtures for the first time since recent years. 2025 concludes with eleven consecutive victories after starting with a loss. We are halfway through the World Cup cycle and the situation look much more positive for the coach than they did previously.

Player Pool and Long-Term Strategy

The manager appears that, two years out from the World Cup, he understands the vast majority of the team he will bring to Australia. Naturally, there will be the surprise inclusion. Yet there are very few existing players of the squad who are not on track for the 2027 tournament.

This is an advantage because it was a problem for his preceding coach, who struggled when it became apparent that veterans were not going to play in his strategy. Borthwick seems to have taken action earlier, avoiding the difficult beginning that affected the team in the past.

Player rankings seem like they are for sailors of yesteryear, but managers swear by them and Borthwick can be satisfied with his. On another day, England might be dealing with a loss after a heartbreaking narrow loss. The fact they avoided that owes plenty to the young star, luck, and the quality of the bench. While Borthwick plans the route to the championship, he has wind in England's sails after 11 wins in a row, and therefore we can forgive the paucity of this performance.