SPAT'S JUST THE WAY IT IS

Coach dismisses Rome bust-up and says captain's word is law

- BY ADAM HATHAWAY IN VERONA

STEVE BORTHWICK has backed his leadership group to haul England out of their hole - despite an on-field spat during their collapse in Italy.

Skipper Maro Itoje was caught on camera screaming at Fin Smith when the fly-half questioned his decision to go for goal rather than a try.

England were 12-10 up early in the second half in Rome on Saturday, before capitulating to a 23-18 defeat, when they won a penalty.

Itoje pointed to the posts, but Smith wanted to kick for touch and a lineout. Itoje stood his ground, and vice-captain Ellis Genge got involved.

Skipper Itoje told Smith: “Don't argue with me. Take the three.”.

From the stands, it looked like another case of England's team coming apart at the seams.