Six Nations: Andy Farrell under no illusions as to challenge facing England in Cardiff

Andy Farrell is confident England will pass the latest test of their development in Saturday's Six Nations decider against Wales in Cardiff.

England can complete a Grand Slam with victory at the Millennium Stadium, while Wales need to win by seven points or more to retain their title.

"We haven't been in this position before, going for a Grand Slam," England backs coach Farrell told Sky Sports News.

"To put it in perspective, 11 of our guys haven't even played at the Millennium Stadium before. I think it's a tremendous position to be in so early in our development.

"We are up against it; we are up against a good experienced side who have been there and done it.

"Experience counts for a lot on these big occasions but we back our culture and belief... we've been pretty good at meeting challenges head-on."
Andy Farrell

"Experience counts for a lot on these big occasions but we back our culture and belief... we've been pretty good at meeting challenges head-on."

Form

Wales won the Grand Slam last year but subsequently lost eight Tests in a row, culminating with a tournament-opening loss to Ireland in Cardiff.

Ireland went in for three tries in the first 42 minutes before hanging on for a 30-22 victory and Wales' try-line was not been breached since.

Wins over France, Italy and Scotland in Wales' last three matches have been founded on a solid defence and Leigh Halfpenny's goal kicking.

"Wales are playing some outstanding rugby at the minute," said Farrell, whose former Wigan rugby league team-mate Shaun Edwards coaches Wales' defence.

"They are an experienced side who came in for unjust flak throughout the autumn, when they had a tremendous number of injuries and were playing against some good teams.

"They've got all those injured players back on the field now and are full steam ahead for the weekend - which is exactly as we'd want it."