Goode and Nowell start for England against Ireland
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Stuart Lancaster has named full back Alex Goode and wing Jack Nowell in his starting side to face Ireland at the Aviva Stadium on Sunday (kick-off 3pm, live one BBC One). Saracens’ Goode, who starred in the 12-6 triumph last time England were in Dublin, starts his first Test for two years after replacing Harlequins’ Mike Brown. Meanwhile, Nowell – in scintillating domestic form with Exeter Chiefs – is preferred to Gloucester Rugby’s Jonny May as the only two unbeaten teams in the RBS 6 Nations go head-to-head. In the only other change to the England match-day 23 that defeated Italy 47-17, Henry Thomas (Bath Rugby) replaces Kieran Brookes on the bench. The Newcastle Falcons tighthead prop is continuing to recover from a hip flexor strain he picked up earlier this week. Explaining the selection, Head Coach Lancaster said the two new names in his 15 had been pressing for inclusion for some time. Though Ireland are on a run of nine consecutive victories, he was wholly confident in the squad that cross the Irish Sea. “We’ve made minimal changes as we felt the squad have performed well in the first two games,” Lancaster said. “Alex is in good form for Saracens and has been training well over the last few weeks, as has Jack, who is also playing well for Exeter. “Both have been pushing hard for selection and I am sure will seize their chance against a high quality Ireland side. “Chris Pennell and Manu Tuilagi will also travel. Manu has been recovering with us and so it’s good to continue keeping him connected. “There are no Greene King IPA Championship matches this weekend so Chris can also spend more time with the squad.” England side to face Ireland 15. Alex Goode (Saracens, 16 caps) 1. Joe Marler (Harlequins, 28 caps) Replacements 16. Tom Youngs (Leicester Tigers, 19 caps) |
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