THE GREATEST CHAMPIONSHIP PERFORMANCE I'VE EVER SEEN...
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Dean Richards
For England v Ireland
March 1986
It's got to be , when he scored two tries on his debut against Ireland at Twickenham in 1986. England won 25-20. [Fran remembered this initially as the game when Richards scored a hat-trick, so impressed was he with the great No 8's performance.] It was so cold that day spectators ripped up cardboard boxes in the car park and lit fires in the metal bins to keep warm. Deano (below) waddled onto the pitch behind the rest of the team, socks rolled down, looking dishevelled, like he'd just come off the beat. The crowd loved him and gave him a big cheer. His style of play too was unique; he was the master of close-quarter play, like a rock, so dominant. He had the knack of anticipating where the ball would be, and once he got hold of it, it was impossible to get it off him. His sheer presence lifted his team-mates.
Fran Cotton, now 58, played prop 31 times for England, from 1971-1981.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments