Matthew Tait says England want to play attacking rugby

Friday 26 February 2010
Published By: Amy Nicholson
Six Nations > England

England's Matthew Tait has said a focus on attacking rugby could be the deciding factor in the game against Ireland this weekend.

Tait, the only try-scorer against Italy, said that the criticism the side have come under since that game only makes the team more eager to "loosen the shackles" at Twickenham.

"The whole group wants to go out and play attacking rugby but we have to make sure we do it at the right time. The coaches are giving us the freedom to go out and do what we want," he said.

According to the utility player, the current side is a "work in progress", but a win against last season's Grand Slam champions would illustrate the steps the squad have taken.

Meanwhile, former Ireland captain Keith Wood, writing for the BBC, said that John Hayes' 100 caps for the country illustrate the high regard in which the player and his abilities are held in the eyes of fans and coaches alike.

Posted by Amy Nicholson