Sport is all about streaks, winning and losing, though whether one of the gloomiest runs in world sport — England’s footballing failure to reach the final of a major tournament for nearly half a century — can be brought to an end by Roy’s Boys remains to be seen. It seems unlikely, but how nice for to be going into a tournament with so little expectation and a team full of youth and vigour, playing without fear. Much better to be under the radar than being hyped out of sight. Can’t wait myself.
Certainly one of the most remarkable winning streaks in sport came to an end last weekend — and an even more impressive streak continued into a third decade. Neither got much coverage, but they deserved to. After four-and-a-half years and 77 matches, Clermont Auvergne, the flamboyant French rugby side, were finally beaten at home, punctured in the Stade Michelin by Castres, from the Pyrenees, in the play-off semi-finals.
It was an extraordinary run — several English sides have headed to the Massif Central with confidence, only to be sent home with their tails between their legs — but all good things come to an end.
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