We’ll silence the Wallabies, vows Cueto
MARK CUETO says England can leave the Wallabies hopping mad with a shock victory in the first Test on Saturday.
The Sale wing is an expected starter in Perth after sitting out the 28-28 draw with the Australian Barbarians in the opening tour match on Tuesday.
But despite Martin Johnson’s men being massive underdogs in their quest for only a third victory over the Wallabies in their own back yard, Cueto says confidence in the camp is high.
“There’s no point going into any game without believing that you’re going to win,” the 30-year-old said. “You’ve obviously got to appreciate who you’re playing and respect who you’re playing and we respect the Aussies massively, particularly out here in their own back yard.
“But if everyone produces a 100 per cent performance on Saturday then we’re definitely capable of winning the game. It’s going to be tight and we don’t expect to get the upper hand in any area particularly, but if we do then happy days.”
Johnson received some welcome news ahead of Saturday’s Test with the news that the two stamping charges lodged against lock Dave Attwood from the Barbarians game were dismissed yesterday.
Rugby Football Union chiefs argued the case could not be impartial as the citing commissioner was Australian.
Johnson has also moved to call up Northampton’s Phil Dowson to his 44-man squad to replace the injured Hendre Foure.
Leeds flanker Foure will return home on Sunday after suffering calf and ankle strains in the Barbarians match.
l Meanwhile, UK Sport boss John Steele has been named as the RFU’s new chief executive.
The former Northampton player and coach succeeds Francis Baron, who is stepping down after 12 years.