Twickenham hurt on Halfpenny’s mind

Editor

With all the focus on the roof in Cardiff on Friday, Wales full-back Leigh Halfpenny hasn’t forgotten about last year’s loss to England.

Halfpenny’s season came to a disappointing conclusion when he dislocated his shoulder at Twickenham making a try-saving tackle.

Wales lost 29-18 as England sealed the Triple Crown, with Halfpenny revealing there was a real sense of disappointment at how Wales had failed to perform.

“We were disappointed last year to have gone there and not perform to the standards we set ourselves,” said Halfpenny.

“And that is something that has been with us since. We will use that hurt to full effect.

“We have done our analysis and things and it was not easy to watch. The performance wasn’t the standard it should be, so Friday night is an opportunity to put that right.

“I think the pressure we have is what we put on ourselves to perform. That’s what we put on ourselves and what we need on Friday night.”

Halfpenny made light of England’s long list of injured players, saying that whatever side they had put out was always going to be strong, while also talking up the atmosphere at the Millennium Stadium, where the roof will be open on Friday night.

“Whatever side they picked was going to be strong. They have quality across the park and we know that to get a result we need to be at our best,” added Halfpenny.

“For me, running out into that packed Millennium Stadium is the best feeling ever.

“Running out for your country in front of your home fans is an immense feeling. The hairs at the back of your neck stand up and there is that huge buzz you get.

“It’s a hell of a feeling and I am lucky enough to have an opportunity to do that on Friday night. We have a huge challenge ahead of us.”