As England head into their decider against New Zealand tomorrow, Wigan’s Liam Farrell insists his side must overcome the disappointment of last week’s narrow loss.
Last Saturday’s 9-2 defeat to the Kiwis set up the DW Stadium clash to be an epic finale with the series tied at one all.
Farrell, who is among six Warriors players in the squad to face New Zealand, believes England’s attitude was well demonstrated through their tough, relentless defence last week.
“We handled them well [last week], but for one disappointing try that was scored – the big thing for us now is to get more rhythm about us,” said the 25-year-old forward.
“When you’re under so much pressure you become determined to keep the opposition out after three or four sets of defending your own line.
“We’ve got an attitude where you have done so much hard work that you don’t want to let them in – you do feel tired but you just want to tough it out and last that extra minute or two.
“We’ve got a team here that can put themselves through the pain barrier and want to do the right things for one another.”
Farrell is also hoping playing conditions are suited to the type of free-flowing game that was lacking at the Olympic Stadium last week.
“Hopefully we’ll have better weather conditions on Saturday and we can treat the fans to some open rugby,” he said.
“We are looking to speed things up.”
England coach Steve McNamara has made two changes heading into the game, handing Huddersfield’s Jermaine McGillvary his England debut and giving Wigan scrum-half Matty Smith the chance to play on home turf.
McGillvary and Smith are expected to replace Wigan pair Joe Burgess and George Williams as boss McNamara attempts to revitalise England’s attack.
McNamara has insisted his side are well aware of how to topple the southern hemisphere giants and believes the stage is set for an international classic.
“We had a great week with our preparations and the players are well aware of the importance of the game and the improvements we have to make from our previous matches to give ourselves every chance of beating a strong New Zealand side,” said the England head coach.
“We will have to be at our best to win but we’ll relish the pressure of playing against a quality team in front of a full house at Wigan.”
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