ANSCOMBE: WE MUST TURN THE HEAT ON THEM FROM THE START
GARETH ANSCOMBE will hope lightning strikes twice when he lines up against Owen Farrell in the Cardiff cauldron.
Eight years ago, the Wales fly-half kicked seven out of seven to steer New Zealand to Junior World Cup final victory over Farrell’s England.
“Obviously, that was a nice day for myself,” said the son of a Welsh mum, whose Kiwi team included England forward Brad Shields. “But I imagine it is going to be a lot different to how that was.
“Owen has really grown over the last few years. He’s a worldclass player and has a pretty calming influence on that England side.
“But he has also had a lot going his way lately, so it is important that we try to put him under a little bit of pressure.
“England have been outstanding in the way they have broken down teams, in particular with their kicking game.” Anscombe played fullback at Twickenham last year, when Farrell started at centre.
And he added: “They have scored early a lot recently and managed to dictate the tempo of games. It’s important we start well, make sure we apply pressure, and aren’t the ones just receiving all of it.”
Wales’ pre-match strategy has been to publicly question the temperament of “emotional time-bomb” Kyle Sinckler, prompting
England attack coach
Scott Wisemantel to last night accuse Warren Gatland of “trying to stir the pot”.
He said: “We saw in the Australia game (when Sinckler sledged the Wallabies) that Kyle has a quick wit and can refocus very quickly.
“He plays the game on the edge. Do you really want to take that away from someone? I don’t think so. He knows how to control himself and I don’t think it’s an issue at all.
“If Wales target him, then they’re leaving 14 other blokes to do their jobs, so good luck!”