WINNING UGLY FOR RECORD
Wales ready to do what it takes for 12th straight Test win against England
WALES coach Warren Gatland warned there would be noholds barred when his team target a record 12th consecutive Test victory in two week’s time after a sloppy 26-15 win over Italy in Rome on Saturday.
Gatland’s side went top of the Six Nations table after away wins against France and Italy and next play England in Cardiff on Feb 23.
But the New Zealander conceded “sometimes you have to win ugly” after Welsh errors allowed the gritty Italians back into the game at the Stadio Olimpico.
“There will definitely be no lack of motivation in trying to beat England and break that record,” said the New Zealander.
“We’ve got a chance, we’re at home, the stadium will be full, it’ll be some atmosphere at the Principality Stadium.
“If this group of players achieve that, it’ll be something nobody can take away from them.”
Wales last achieved 11 consecutive victories in 1910.
Gatland made 10 changes to the side that beat the French in Paris and led 7-12 at the break thanks to four Dan Biggar penalties.
Josh Adams and Owen Watkin scored a pair of tries after the break but there were too many errors to push for a bonus-point win.
“You’re not always brilliant and we weren’t today. We will be a lot better against England,” said Gatland.
The Italians slumped to a 19th successive defeat in the championship, but emerged with some credit, scoring a try in each half and rattling the world number three team.
“A lot of people criticise us but you have to give Italy credit,” saidGatland.
Gatland tried an experimental Wales side with Jonathan Davies captaining the team for the first time.
Gatland emptied his bench in the second half with regular skipper Alun Wyn Jones coming on late and his imposing presence provided a boost.
“There’s no regrets, we’ve won two from two matches and now have a couple of weeks to set up nicely for the England match.
Italy followed their loss to Scotland in Murrayfield by extending their losing streak in the competition going back to February 2015.
Italy play Ireland in the Stadio Olimpico on Feb 24.