Forward coach Graham Rowntree today insisted Italy would still be a major challenge for title chasing England in Rome on Saturday despite the loss of tight head prop Martin Castrogiovanni with broken ribs.
England’s pack impressed against Ireland and Wales, creating victories that have kept Six Nations title hopes alive and Rowntree’s forwards will be expected to continue their good form against an Italian team that is set to pick up the Wooden Spoon.
The 26-24 loss by England in the opening championship game means they will not be going for the Grand Slam for a second successive season and Rowntree only wants to concentrate on the positives of the season. “You would drive yourself mad thinking about that.
“We know what could be possible this Saturday in terms of the title but we have to play the match not think about the scoreline. It’s about winning the bloody game.
“A lot has been said about scoring as many points as possible but you don’t go over to Italy and smash them. We only scored one try on our last visit to Rome and the loss of Castro will not affect their scrum because they have been very strong in that area in all of their games and they are big men. Italy have had their moments in all their games this season.
Despite beating Wales 29-18, Rowntree is adamant there is plenty of room for improvement and added: “We have looked at the video and it's about demanding standards of performance and we have lots to work on after Wales. We have an exceptionally talented back line and it's about giving them quicker ball.”
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