Rowntree targets upset

Assistant coach out to defend proud record at Twickenham

Last Updated: February 21, 2012 5:03pm

Image text here

Graham Rowntree: Will put friendships to one side

Sky Bet

Assistant coach Graham Rowntree will put cross-border friendships on hold as England look to upset the odds against Wales at Twickenham.

Rowntree knows the Wales coaching staff and a number of their key players from the 2009 British and Irish Lions tour.

And although Rowntree is full of admiration for the Triple Crown-chasing Welsh, who have been boosted by the return of captain Sam Warburton and lock Alun Wyn Jones, he insists England are ready to defend their proud home record on Saturday.

World Cup semi-finalists Wales have managed just one victory over England at Twickenham since 1988 - in the 2008 Grand Slam campaign.

"It is hard to dislike this Welsh team - but I'll do my best to try."
Graham Rowntree Quotes of the week

"It is hard to dislike this Welsh team - but I'll do my best to try," Rowntree said.

Confidence

"I have worked with these guys on the Lions. I have been impressed by their skill. They are good guys as well.

"They are a complete outfit in terms of what they can produce in the tight and dynamically in the loose.

"They are the form team, coming to Twickenham as favourites for the first time in a long time. They have a great opportunity to come to Twickenham and roll us at the weekend.

"They would have taken great confidence from the World Cup and a great win in Ireland. They will be fancying their chances.

"Something we spoke about all week is matching that challenge. I am ready to play. I think we are going to be able to step up."