Win was just grand but it's too early to talk of slam

THE WORLD'S MOST-CAPPED FORWARD THERE is danger of people getting carried away after England's victory over Wales. Yes, it was an improvement on the autumn performances and a step up from last season's poor RBS Six Nations campaign, but we ended up with an inflated scoreline because the Welsh fell away in the last quarter.

The first weekend of the championship proved there are no easy games. Italy pushed Ireland hard and England know they will be in for another tough battle in Rome on Saturday.

I am not going to be beating the drum about a possible England Grand Slam as there is a long way to go and we have three successive away games to face against Italy, Scotland and France.

I was pleased for head coach Andy Robinson and Joe Lydon, the backs coach, because they have been knocked for not creating enough attacking opportunities. Against Wales, we saw Charlie Hodgson in outstanding form directing operations from No10, while Jamie Noon made a great break for Mark Cueto's try, which only emphasised what a top-quality finisher he has become at the highest level.

It was significant England created tries even though Josh Lewsey, their most consistent player for the last two years, was forced off with a shoulder injury. Tom Voyce took over at fullback, did himself proud and showed he could do the job.

There has been much talk about Martin Corry and Lawrence Dallaglio but I don't buy into the idea that the presence of Lol in the squad is a major problem.

Cozza does not feel uncomfortable and has made it clear there is no room for egos because playing at Test level is all about what's good for the team.

They could both operate successfully in the same side because Cozza and Lol are top-class players at either No8 or blindside flanker and that is one option open to Robinson.

No player likes being taken off before the end, which is what happened to Cozza on Saturday, but it was common sense. He has been receiving treatment for a rib injury and Robinson was right to save the captain for the tough games coming up.

I had no doubts Lol was ready to return to the Test arena. His presence rubs off on others and, when we won the World Cup in 2003, there were enough quality players for England to have fielded two teams. We need that strength in depth to mount a successful defence in France next year.

Even without the captaincy, Lol will be ready to help in whatever way he can and that kind of commitment is invaluable. He is the kind of player you cannot ignore.

(c)2006. Associated Newspapers Ltd.. Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning Company. All rights Reserved.