England’s Goode targets wounded Wallabies

Alex Goode has warned Australia that England have the attacking potential to blow the best teams in the world out of the water – and he is determined to prove it next weekend.

Goode was named man of the match for a sparkling individual performance as England warmed up for Tests against the Wallabies, South Africa and New Zealand with a record 54-12 win against Fiji.

The Saracens fullback had a direct hand in three of England’s tries and he lends a new dynamic to the red rose attacking game, joining the line from fullback to act as a second playmaker.

England have been direct and predictable with the ball in hand in recent times but there were glimpses against Fiji of a side with greater variety to its attack.

And with Australia reeling after a 33-6 thumping in Paris, Goode insists England are ready to pounce on the wounded Wallabies.

“We are trying to evolve,” Goode said.

“When Stuart Lancaster came in he laid the foundations and what a good Six Nations it, was built on hard work, defence, a kicking game and the set piece.

“Attack takes time for people to understand each others’ roles, to get with the pattern but that is hopefully something we are really looking to push this autumn and test it against the best.

“We have tough teams coming against us. We have to make sure we are on the money and play well.

“There will be a big improvement for next week. If we play as well as we can do then we are good enough to blow teams out of the water.”

Although Australia were humbled by France, England know their execution must improve if they are to beat the Wallabies for a third consecutive Test.

The potential return of Chris Ashton on the wing and London Irish centre Jonathan Joseph to face the Wallabies would increase the attacking options and sharpen England’s cutting edge.

“It will be a different type of game. It will be tight against the Aussies,” Goode said.

“We will be tested a lot more but that is the challenge for everyone. We have to raise the intensity a lot more and in defence just make sure we smash them from minute one.

“There are bits to work on. There were some great chances created against Fiji but some opportunities went begging out there and there will be a big improvement for next week.”

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