Although they may be separated by over 10,000 miles England and Samoa are no strangers on the international sevens pitch.  The two sides met six times last season and England have already registered one decisive victory over them this season in George.  However, what has happened in previous matches won't count for anything when England and Samoa meet in Wellington next month. 

History between England and Samoa is rife and new England Sevens Coach Ben Ryan is only too aware that the islanders will be busy planning how to beat England.  He said, "England won on five of the six occasions last season, and we beat them 24 0 in George in December so they will be more determined than ever to win this time.  The Samoans are always tough - not only are their players big but they are also extremely skilful, and are more than capable of beating any team on their day."

England's other opposition in New Zealand will be Scotland - geographically much closer rivals but just as determined.  Ryan continued, "Scotland are also a real threat and it was in Wellington two years ago that we lost to the Scots - something neither side have forgotten.  They may have a lot of development players in their squad but so have we, and whilst we are still at this early stage of the IRB Sevens season, results could come down to how quickly the youngsters - on either side - adapt to international sevens."

He continued, "Wellington is an extremely tough place to play rugby, especially if you are England. I am aware of the hostility and size of the crowd with over 30,000 noisy kiwis all cheering for our opposition every time we take to the field.  Our players will need to prepare themselves mentally, as well as physically, before they play.  England have struggled to perform to their best ability in Wellington in recent years, although we did win the Plate last year, and everyone involved is determined to get England's first win in New Zealand."

After Wellington, the squad travel to San Diego, a new location for the USA Sevens, which is staged on 10th and 11th February.  England won the LA Sevens last year and will be looking for a back to back win this year.  Ryan said, "England played some outstanding sevens in LA last year and we will be looking for a repeat of that this year in San Diego.  Things don't get any easier for us when we travel to the USA as we play the home nation, as well as the improving Australians and speedy Kenyans.  We currently sit in third place behind South Africa and New Zealand so success at these next two tournaments is vital if we are to climb further up the points table." 

Pool C for Wellington (2nd & 3rd February):
England
Samoa
Scotland
Papua New Guinea

Pool C for San Diego (10th & 11th February):
England
Australia
Kenya
USA

Ends.