Rugby Comment: How I prepare for a Six Nations clash
SINCE narrowly losing our Six Nations opener in France, our focus has been on emulating Wales, who recovered last year to win the title. We were clinical against Scotland in our next match and the whole England squad is excited to play our first game at Twickenham this year, against Ireland tomorrow.
I’m not surprised by Ireland’s strong start. They have a new coach, not too many of their players were on last summer’s gruelling Lions tour and a few feel they have a point to prove. Their scrum and maul has been key; we’ll have to be at our best to counter that.
Starting on the bench for both games means it’s been a different championship for me. A new back three needs time to gel – I understand that – and Mike Brown has played well at full-back. I just have to make sure that I’m ready to come on.
That starts during the week, when I do my homework on the opposition. The night before I’ll have a good meal, maybe spaghetti bolognese, and go to bed by 11pm as big-match nerves mean I wake at 7am.
In the morning I’ll watch a TV box set – I’m hooked on Californication – and after, meet the rest of the backline to discuss the game and get fired up. Then while I’m on the bench I try to assess the pattern of the match so that, when called on, I can make an immediate impact.
This week I know I’ll be playing across the back three when I come on, as George Ford has come into the 22 for the first time. George is a fantastic natural talent, has looked really good in training and deserves his chance. He has a strong running game, takes the line on and attacks defences. He’s also a real organiser – exactly what you want from a fly-half.
Alex Goode plays for Saracens and England. Saracens face Harlequins at Wembley on 22 March. For tickets see saracens.com or call 0844 847 1876.