1
England Rugby heading back to Jersey
By PA
England will return to Jersey for their pre-autumn training camp as they plot victories over World Cup rivals New Zealand and South Africa.
Eddie Jones’ squad will spend five days in the Channel Islands from October 26 and will be based at Jersey Reds, the setting for last year’s camp which preceded a clean sweep of wins against Tonga, Australia and the Springboks.
“We’re looking forward to getting started and these camps will be crucial preparation for big games this autumn,” Jones said.
“We have 13 Tests before the World Cup so each game is a great learning opportunity and a chance to keep moving forward for this young team. It’s vital that we keep building our cohesion and adapting tactically.
“We enjoyed our time in Jersey last year, it has excellent facilities and the island is a great setting for a productive training camp.
“It helped us lay the foundations for a successful autumn campaign and we want for more of the same this year.”
Mirroring their group schedule at next year’s World Cup, England’s first two matches of the Autumn Nations Series take place against Argentina and Japan.
On November 19 they face under-performing New Zealand, who have plummeted to fifth in the global rankings, before closing the month at Twickenham with the visit of South Africa.
“Our game is based on the traditional strengths of set-piece and physicality so we are aiming to set the tone in November, starting with an impressive Argentina team,” Jones said.
Trending on RugbyPass
2
Robertson says Italy sensed All Blacks' weaknesses
3
All Blacks player ratings vs Italy
4
Scotland's Sione Tuipulotu admits anger at Australian rugby
5
Latest Comments
Willie will always be the most missed player for me once he retires. He wasn't interested in scoring tries. The ultimate team player. Has the most assists in tries in the Bok team, and his kicks always spot on, at least 95% of the time. He reads the game like no other player can. He wasn't flashy, and people didn't notice him because of that. Great rugby head and knowledge. He should be catapulted into an assistant coach in the rugby system. He should really consider coaching.
Damian Willemse is an excellent fullback and he is the number 1 fullback. He can play the entire backline positions, except maybe 9, but I'm sure he would be able too if he wanted. No one is taking that away from him, only stand in while he is injured. He is world class and you don't swap that out. He also got wicked dancing feet, great eye for openings, and reads a game like few can, like Willie Le Roux. Also very strong on his feet, with absolute great hands and his kicking game is just as good.
As for Aphelele Fassi. What a great find and he has exceptional talent that Rassie will mould into a world class player. Yet.... He is nowhere even close to Damien Willemse. He has a long way to go to get there, but he is surrounded by great team mates from who he will gain lots of advice and support. He can play wing and fullback and Rassie may just try him out as a flyhalf or centre too. He has the abilities to expand his game. He is for sure a future star, but not yet at the stage to take away Damien Willemse's spot. However, DW start and AF on the bench, that is an awesome replacement. Between the 2 they cover all positions in the backline once AF gets that training. The Boks could go 6/2 permanently if they wanted. 6 forwards, a scrumhalf and AF. I may be wrong, but Rassie will spread AF around.
Go to commentsGood grief
Beauden was his usual industrious self mixing deft touches with mindless kicks
6 or 7 max!!
Go to comments