England fans slammed over ‘crazy disrespect’ in reaction to New Zealand haka

England welcomed New Zealand to Twickenham for their third autumn international match, but the home crowd were slammed for their reaction to the haka

England triumphed over New Zealand in an autumn international clash at Allianz Stadium Twickenham but home rugby supporters faced criticism before kick-off for their response to the haka.

England hosted New Zealand at their fortress for the third fixture of their autumn international series. Steve Borthwick’s men had begun the campaign with a commanding 25-7 win against Australia earlier this month, before dispatching Fiji 38-18 the previous weekend.

The Red Roses team were in buoyant mood ahead of their encounter with the All Blacks on Saturday afternoon, reports the Express. After the national anthems concluded, the New Zealand squad assembled near the halfway line to deliver their traditional haka.

The England players formed themselves into a flying V formation, ready to observe the ceremonial dance.

As the haka commenced, England supporters in the stands roared out Swing Low, Sweet Chariot, while the hosts sought to create an intimidating Twickenham atmosphere.

However, not everyone appreciated this, with numerous observers believing the crowd had shown disrespect towards the haka. One rugby fan wrote on X: “How embarrassing that you’re into rugby but will support being disrespectful through the haka.”

Another said: “I’m disgusted with English rugby supporters showing such disrespect for the All Blacks Haka. Shocking behaviour.” Meanwhile, a third fan posted: “All Blacks please do me a favour and smash these guys, crazy disrespect on the haka.”

However, some fans rallied behind England’s actions. One said: “England’s Red Roses always have a perfect way to respond to New Zealand’s HAKA.”

Another rugby enthusiast chimed in: “I’ll say one thing for the Twickenham set when it comes to England vs NZ matches. They do properly respond to the Haka in real time vs the unnecessarily timid response & OTT reverence so many other crowds give it.”

Meanwhile, another fan lightened the mood with his quip: “What’s with the shape of England’s line-up facing the haka?”

The match against the three-time World Cup champions didn’t start well for England, with Leicester Fainga’anuku and Codie Taylor scoring for the visitors within the first 18 minutes.

However, Ollie Lawrence retaliated with a try after 25 minutes. Despite New Zealand dominating the first half and England being under significant pressure, the hosts held their ground, their defence standing firm against one of the world’s top teams.

England kept the points coming as George Ford kicked two drop goals in quick succession just before half-time, narrowing New Zealand’s lead to 12-11.

The second half saw England turn the game around as Sam Underhill and Fraser Dingwall scored tries, followed by a counter from Will Jordan for the away team. However, Tom Roebuck secured a fourth try for England, clinching victory for the home side.