rebuilding

Earlier this year he warned that “there could be war in Sweden”, although that was seen as a wake-up call because he felt that moves towards rebuilding that “total defence” were progressing too slowly.

"The last 12 months hasn't been successful. We've lost a lot of experience and we know there's a rebuilding phase to go through."

Borthwick is rebuilding the team after relying on an experienced core of players at the Rugby World Cup last year.

The Blues were not expected to challenge for the title this season, having finished sixth last term before another summer of rebuilding.

But instead of defeat, there was a spirit of resiliency and defiance as neighbors helped neighbors and many talked of rebuilding as quickly as possible.