Bath flyhalf George Ford put in another impressive performance in his side's 33-18 victory over London Irish last weekend. In addition to an outstanding try and four conversions, he even had time to develop an unconventional goal kicking technique.
Sadly for George, and despite the crowd's amusement at what could have been a fairly historic moment, his innovative kick did not meet the IRB requirements for a successful kick at goal.
Specifically, it fell short of Law 9.A.2. Kick at goal - special circumstances. (a) If after the ball is kicked, it touches the ground or any team-mate of the kicker, a goal cannot be scored.
Ford has been on the radar for several years. In 2009 he was nominated for the BBC Young Sports Personality of the Year and in 2011 he became the first Englishman and youngest ever winner of the IRB Junior Player of the Year award. He is now putting in top performances at senior level too.
During the summer he switched from Leicester to Bath, and since moving away from Toby Flood's shadow his performances have been making headlines. Some have suggested an England call up may not be too far away. Amongst his admirers is London Irish director, Brian Smith.
"He's tearing up trees at 10 and England are lucky to have him. George has a lot of control, you can see the way players rally round him, he's a class act. If he keeps playing like this, I don't think England can ignore him for too long," said Smith after the match.
Despite all the plaudits he has been receiving of late, he is sure to stay grounded.
"It's not all about George. We have lots of people in that back line who can excel," said Mike Ford, Bath head coach and once England defence coach. Then again he is George's father.
View full highlights of the match, including his great solo try, on page two below this video
Photo via Onside Images
Official highlights of Bath vs London Irish from the Recreation Ground