Dallaglio calls for ‘courage and intensity’

ENGLAND captain Lawrence Dallaglio called for “courage and intensity” from his players as the world champions finalised plans to storm New Zealand’s Dunedin fortress.

Victory over the All Blacks at Carisbrook on Saturday a feat achieved by only the Lions and Australia since 1905 would complete an unprecedented hat-trick of English wins against New Zealand.

Dallaglio takes charge of a much-changed England team there are just six survivors from last summer's stirring 15-13 success in Wellington.

England will not have players like Martin Johnson, Neil Back, Jonny Wilkinson, Jason Robinson and Will Greenwood available this time around. But Dallaglio appeared relaxed and quietly confident yesterday as he assessed England's chances of notching another notable triumph.

"Dunedin is a place where New Zealand are used to winning, but that's all part of the challenge and all part of what we've come here for. We are looking forward to it," he said.

England displayed remarkable commitment and strength of character to defeat New Zealand last June, especially as they were left with only six forwards for a spell in the second-half after Dallaglio and Back were both sin-binned.

It could require similar heroics this time around, although the emphasis will also be on an improved display.

"Technically, Wellington last year was probably our poorest performance of the season," said Dallaglio. "We are going to have to play for 80 minutes, and tackle and defend with courage and intensity."

All Blacks coach Graham Henry has selected a pack with an emphasis on establishing set-piece domination and stopping England at source.

If that does not happen, then it is difficult to see England losing, but a dominant New Zealand eight would give star backs like Carlos Spencer, Joe Rokocoko and Doug Howlett every chance of shredding the red rose.

"We have got to go out there and try and make sure we dominate up front," said Dallaglio.

An England reversal, on the back of a 24-21 Six Nations loss to France, would be the first time since June 2000 46 Tests ago that they have suffered two defeats in a row.