| Rugby World Cup: Ashton keeps the faith |
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| Written by Zico Kelly | |||||||
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Thursday, 11 October 2007
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 England coach Brian Ashton is sticking with the same team that sent Australia crashing out of the Rugby World Cup for Saturday's semi-final against France. Reigning world champions England are available at +200 odds to beat the French in Paris with Bodog. It becomes the very first time during Ashton's 15-Tests in charge as head coach that he has gone with the same team in successive matches.Full-back Jason Robinson will become the latest England player to win 50 caps in what would be his farewell Test match before retirement should England lose. What a finish the Robinson is having to his illustrious career. 2003 World Cup-winner Mike Catt is also retained in the centre next to Mathew Tait. Catt replaced the injured Andy Farrell against Australia and Ashton has show faith in the veteran. The inspirational Lawrence Dallaglio will start on the subs bench. Harlequins number eight Nick Easter will start alongside a back row that features Leicester duo Martin Corry and Lewis Moody. Said Brian Ashton: "It certainly makes a difference (to be able to name an unchanged team). The 22 out there last week more than merit another shot at it this week. We need to improve in all areas, we know that. I can't imagine we will catch France off-guard in the same way we caught Australia off-guard. France are the home country, at the home stadium, the crowd are behind them, we will have to go up a gear. We know that." Catt was preferred to Farrell, who misses out on a place in the squad with Toby Flood retained on the bench. "Mike took his chance last week, simple as that. It was a very, very difficult decision," said Brian Ashton. "Toby came on with 18 minutes to go in a hot pressure situation and I thought he handled himself exceptionally well in all areas of the game.” Robinson will lead the team out at the Stade de France and said: "This is what I came out of retirement for. It is a massive, massive game." Can England prove the doubters wrong and slay the French in their Paris stronghold? +200 odds is a huge price and Point-Spreads.com believes it is well worth a wager.                        |
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| Last Updated ( Thursday, 11 October 2007 ) | |||||||