Johnson Demands More From England

England coach Martin Johnson insists his side must improve if they are to win their first 6 Nations Grand Slam since 2003.

Johnson was captain of the 2003 side that last won the Grand Slam, and then went on to lead England to World Cup glory later that year.  England scraped past a dogged Scotland side intent on disrupting their rhythm, and it wasn’t until Johnny Wilkinson’s penalty in the closing stages of the match that the game seemed beyond Scotland. Now Johnson believes England have a lot to work on if they are to overcome Ireland in Dublin next week.

“We know we can play a lot better than that. We'll be in a fight (against Ireland) and we've got to make sure we are a bit smarter the next time we play." The former England manager said.

England struggled to reprise their free-flowing rugby which saw them blow away Italy and overcome Wales, but Johnson insists that the manner of the victory will help keep his players and coaching staff’s feet on the ground.

"I'd be happier in a way going to Dublin next week off the back of that game rather than scoring a lot of points and having it easy. It focuses everybody's mind," Johnson commented.

"When everyone is telling you how good you are, it can leak in a little bit.”

Tom Croft returned to the side to score England’s only try of the game. Having missed all three of England’s three previous games in the tournament with a shoulder injury, the Leicester flanker was delighted to cross the line for his country. He said: It was great to be back involved with a squad that is going well and hopefully we can finish the job off now.”

"We are in a good place, four from four and a chance of a Grand Slam. We need to be focused and not let the whole event get on top of us." He added.

Meanwhile Steve Thompson set a new record when his Gilbert sidestep boots crossed the line on Sunday, becoming England’s most capped hooker.