England coach Eddie Jones is confident of turning his side into world-class finishers despite their lack of second-half points in the Six Nations.
In three games to date in this year’s tournament, they have scored one try after the 53rd minute, with the second half of games against Scotland, Italy and Wales notable for the lack of points.
Despite that, Jones said he was heartened by the attacking prowess of half-backs Harry Randall and Marcus Smith, as well as full-back Freddie Steward.
“We’ve increased our run metres by 40 per cent in the last 12 months,” he said. “The last bit is to finish off those tries. We feel like we’re in a really good position. Marcus and Harry and Freddie have added to that mix.”
England are still in the hunt for the Six Nations title ahead of their final two matches, France in two weekends’ time in Paris and Ireland at Twickenham this Saturday.
Looking ahead to the business end of the tournament, Jones said: “Three teams left to win it and we’re lucky to be one of those three. Ireland are favourites [on Saturday]… a very settled, well-coached team by Andy Farrell.
“They are literally the most cohesive squad in the world. The bulk of their team train together for the bulk of the year. They’re very coordinated in attack, very structured…and they’re tough at the breakdown.
“They pose a great challenge but we’re not intimidated by any team. We’ve a young squad but a very good squad and I’m pleased with the development of the squad. We’re moving in the right direction.”
Manu Tuilagi, who had been lined up for a return against Wales, is again absent from the Ireland game while No8 Alex Dombrandt is in danger of missing the match having tested for Covid.
But Jones said of the Harlequins back-row’s prospects of facing Ireland: “He’ll be a chance. We’ve got to wait and see how he recovers from Covid. He has to do all the cardiac tests and we’ll see on Thursday if he can train. If that’s the case, he’s a chance he can play against Ireland.”
Sam Underhill is back in the squad after recovering from concussion blows and Covid to play against Bristol at the weekend.
Of his prospects of making the match-day squad at the weekend, Jones said: “He’s a quality player. He’s had a difficult season: Covid, sickness, a few injuries. He’s a little bit off his best. We’ll give him the opportunity to train tomorrow and see where we’re up to. If he’s at the necessary level… he’ll come into consideration for the 23.”
