England's head coach Steve Borthwick has thrown down the gauntlet, predicting a barrage of kicks from Wales in their upcoming Six Nations clash at Twickenham. The Welsh team, led by Steve Tandy, is anticipated to heavily utilize a kicking game, a tactic that has been less than successful in their recent outings. Borthwick's claim, made during a media event in Edinburgh, suggests a tactical inundation that could see Wales attempting upwards of 50 contestable kicks.
Wales' recent performance under Tandy hasn't exactly set the world alight, with a solitary, nail-biting win against Japan being their only success in the last four games. This match saw Wales securing victory through a last-minute penalty, while their other matches ended in heavy defeats. The Welsh side, which experienced a thrashing by scores such as 73-0 against South Africa, appears to be in a dire state. Their approach in the autumn internationals involved considerable use of the boot, varying their kicks between short tactical plays and longer clearances.
"He has come in, has implemented a plan, very clear at the start on two or three things. He has brought that defensive style he had at Scotland, tackling higher, trying to hold the ball in the air there. And they have brought this contestable kick game. Loads of contestable kicks."
England, on the other hand, is entering the tournament on a high, riding an 11-match winning streak. Borthwick, who took over the reins from Eddie Jones, has revitalized England's squad, fostering a blend of experienced leaders and emerging talent. The likes of Ellis Genge, Jamie George, Maro Itoje, George Ford, and Tom Curry have been pivotal in setting standards within the squad.
Borthwick expressed his anticipation for the tournament and highlighted the importance of starting strong against Wales. "We have a great blend," he noted, emphasizing the energy and commitment of his players to wear the England jersey with pride.
The game against Wales is not just another fixture but a strategic challenge that England must navigate effectively. With the Six Nations title in sight, every match, beginning with the opener against Wales, is crucial. Borthwick is confident in his team's preparation, stating, "We want to make sure we go into that last weekend with an opportunity to achieve what we want to achieve, be in a position to do that." England is poised not just to compete, but to dominate, seeking to maintain their upward trajectory under Borthwick's leadership.
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England's head coach Steve Borthwick has thrown down the gauntlet, predicting a barrage of kicks from Wales in their upcoming Six Nations clash at Twickenham. The Welsh team, led by Steve Tandy, is anticipated to heavily utilize a kicking game, a tactic that has been less than successful in their recent outings. Borthwick's claim, made during a media event in Edinburgh, suggests a tactical inundation that could see Wales attempting upwards of 50 contestable kicks.
Wales' recent performance under Tandy hasn't exactly set the world alight, with a solitary, nail-biting win against Japan being their only success in the last four games. This match saw Wales securing victory through a last-minute penalty, while their other matches ended in heavy defeats. The Welsh side, which experienced a thrashing by scores such as 73-0 against South Africa, appears to be in a dire state. Their approach in the autumn internationals involved considerable use of the boot, varying their kicks between short tactical plays and longer clearances.
"He has come in, has implemented a plan, very clear at the start on two or three things. He has brought that defensive style he had at Scotland, tackling higher, trying to hold the ball in the air there. And they have brought this contestable kick game. Loads of contestable kicks."
England, on the other hand, is entering the tournament on a high, riding an 11-match winning streak. Borthwick, who took over the reins from Eddie Jones, has revitalized England's squad, fostering a blend of experienced leaders and emerging talent. The likes of Ellis Genge, Jamie George, Maro Itoje, George Ford, and Tom Curry have been pivotal in setting standards within the squad.
Borthwick expressed his anticipation for the tournament and highlighted the importance of starting strong against Wales. "We have a great blend," he noted, emphasizing the energy and commitment of his players to wear the England jersey with pride.
The game against Wales is not just another fixture but a strategic challenge that England must navigate effectively. With the Six Nations title in sight, every match, beginning with the opener against Wales, is crucial. Borthwick is confident in his team's preparation, stating, "We want to make sure we go into that last weekend with an opportunity to achieve what we want to achieve, be in a position to do that." England is poised not just to compete, but to dominate, seeking to maintain their upward trajectory under Borthwick's leadership.