England expect tough test

ANDY ROBINSON has geared England up for an intense physical battle against Italy on Saturday, admitting: “They will stand toe-to-toe with us.”

The Italians have failed to hold England on three previous occasions in Rome, conceding 154 points.

But they are hurting from last weekend’s controversial Six Nations loss to Ireland in Dublin, when refereeing decisions went against them, and England boss Robinson expects Italy to come out firing at the Stadio Flaminio.

“We have always known that Italy have the physicality as a team, and apart from France, I think they are the most physical team we play against in the northern hemisphere,” said Robinson.

“They will stand toe-to-toe with you, so up front will be a major physical battle for us.

“I think they have just added a bit of guile with the pace they are playing at, and I think their back-play has certainly improved and is pretty dangerous.

“What I saw last weekend was a side that were unfortunate to lose a game of rugby.

“If you think back last year to us in Dublin, then I think we were in a similar boat, feeling the same way. We were able to respond after that, and I think Italy will be looking to respond on Saturday.”

Robinson has made one enforced change from the team that demolished reigning Six Nations champions Wales at Twickenham last Saturday.

Full-back Josh Lewsey has not recovered from a shoulder injury sustained early in the game, and he is replaced by his Wasps colleague Tom Voyce, who makes a first Six Nations start.

Robinson though, is optimistic that Lewsey will be fit in time for England’s appointment with Scotland at Murrayfield on February 25.