KEV SUPPORT

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- BY ADAM HATHAWAY

LEWIS MOODY has been backed to tackle motor neurone disease with same attitude he brought to tackling opponents throughout his trophy-laden career.

The fearless former flanker, who learned he had the condition two weeks ago, earned the nickname ‘Mad Dog’ for his aggressive style and the way he put his body on the line for Leicester, Bath, England and the Lions.

A World Cup winner in 2003, Moody’s commitment was summed up in the final against Australia which England might not have won without him.

It was Moody's lung-bursting chase to charge down fullback Mat Rogers which won England a crucial line out.

Then Moody, who had come off the bench, soared to claim the ball at that set-piece which kicked off the move that led to Jonny Wilkinson's drop-goal and rugby immortality for the squad. Off the field, Moody is one of the most affable blokes you could meet but once over the white line he turned into a different beast.

And centre that day Will Greenwood (circle, top) is confident Moody will fight MND with the same energy he brought to the pitch.