Anthony Watson eyes World Cup start with England
Wednesday 2 September 2015 14:03, UK
Anthony Watson knows he must back up his try-scoring display against France if he is to capture one of the wing slots for England's World Cup opener against Fiji.
Watson struck twice in last month's 19-14 victory at Twickenham, while Jonny May also impressed in the first of two Tests against France. The pair have been restored to the side for Saturday's visit of Ireland after Jack Nowell had been given his chance in the 25-20 defeat in Paris.
Watson knows a strong performance against Ireland will boost his hopes of a place in the starting XV when England's Pool A campaign kicks off against Fiji.
He said: "I'm looking to seize this opportunity with both hands. I've watched my tries a few times, I wouldn't say over and over because all that stuff doesn't really mean much unless you do it again.
"Performing at international level is about doing that week-in week-out and not having inconsistencies.
"All three wings have been going well. Jonny played particularly well in the first France game and showed what he can do in the second Test against France as well. For Jack to beat 10 defenders in Paris was a special feat. All of us are challenging each other and trying to make each other better."
Watson's jink and dart around France wing Brice Dulin evoked memories of Jason Robinson and the 21-year-old Bath three-quarter has studied the former England finisher for tips.
He said: "The first try was a bit of instinct and practise. Growing up I watched lots of Jason Robinson and Quade Cooper, guys who had good footwork.
"Just by watching them it rubs off. It's probably 50-50 - a lot of it is instinctive, but the more you practise it the easier it is to translate into instinct."
