Jonathan Davies has told his Wales teammates they must hold back a relentless white tide if they are to beat England on Saturday.
The Lions centre admits he has been impressed by England in their two bonus-point victories so far in this Six Nations championship – their shutting down of Ireland in Dublin and their disintegration of France at Twickenham.
In both games, says Davies, England have been ruthless in their pursuit of points, rather than looking to hold onto their lead.
“England’s game is built around putting pressure on the opposition,” says the Scarlets star.
“They have been very clinical taking their chances. They are in a very good spot and they are always very well prepared and well-drilled.
“People expected Ireland to have more of a foothold in the game. That was more of a surprise than the French game, probably.
“The way that England came out of the blocks and started so well in Dublin was very impressive. They kept putting pressure on Ireland and kept scoring points throughout the game. They didn’t get a lead and hold back.
“They kept going and going at them. That is something they will probably try and do this weekend and something we will have to try and negate.”
England have recalled Manu Tuilagi for this tournament and the Leicester powerhouse has formed a formidable midfield axis with Henry Slade and captain Owen Farrell.
Davies is very familiar with all three players and believes the challenge they pose – along with the in-form wing Jonny May – will be a big step up for Wales and defence coach Shaun Edwards compared to the victories over France and Italy.
“It’s a very good England team that we will come up against on Saturday. They have a rich resource of talent from 1 to 15.
“Their midfield is always of a high quality and it’s good to see Manu back after a long injury spell.
“Manu has massive physicality, but he has a great off-loading game as well. It’s making sure he doesn’t get momentum going for that team. Defensively, we have to listen to Shaun’s instructions and we bring our line speed all through the game and don’t switch off at all.
“Owen is a world class performer and a leader. Having played with him and against him, I’ve got huge respect for his ability.
“He definitely drives that ship now and it’s important for us that we take away his time and don’t give him an easy ride on Saturday.
“Jonny May has a great work rate and gets his hands on the ball a lot. He’s very dangerous with his speed. We have to make sure we match that effort and work rate. He’s in good form at the moment, but they have a lot of talent throughout that team.”
England coach Eddie Jones has labelled Warren Gatland’s side as the best Wales have ever had – an accolade that has raised the odd eyebrow among anyone old enough to remember the 1970s, or young enough to be adept on YouTube searches.
Davies is happy to skirt that debate but says: “If that’s what he thinks, fine.
“We are in a good position at the moment and have a good bit of form. We are very comfortable where we are and it’s important we get excited for what will be a very good England team.
“The strength in depth is there for us, but I don’t know if it’s the best I’ve been involved with. I’ve been very fortunate to have been involved in Grand Slams and Championships and I’m just enjoying my rugby at the moment.
“Where we are as a squad feels comfortable and that feels a good sign.”
With both Leigh Halfpenny and Dan Biggar back in full training, Wales have more options in their back line selection and Davies says he would have no qualms if his Scarlets clubmate returns for his first match in three months following problems with concussion.
“It’s great to have Leigh and Dan back in training because they are two boys who are massive on experience. They add to our squad in a positive manner.
“When you are away from the game a long time, it is difficult to get up to speed. But Leigh has been on the field now training with us for a number of weeks now and he looks good.
“If he has that confidence, then I’m sure he has the ability to come back in. It shouldn’t be questioned.”
