Stevens given England chance

ENGLAND boss Andy Robinson last night backed rookie prop Matt Stevens to thrive when he is thrown into the Lansdowne Road bear-pit against Ireland on Sunday.

Despite England's dismal RBS 6 Nations Championship form, Robinson made just one enforced change following the 18-17 reversal at home to France nine days ago.

South Africa-born Stevens, who qualifies for the world champions through an English parent, will make his first Test start following two substitute appearances against New Zealand last summer.