We lack belief, claims frustrated Johnson
COACH Martin Johnson says England lack the belief to win tight games after his side suffered more Six Nations frustration on Saturday.
Johnson cut a forlorn figure as England were held to a disappointing 15-15 draw in their Calcutta Cup match with Scotland at Murrayfield.
It came just a fortnight after his side blew a lead against Ireland with five minutes to go, and Johnson insists lessons now must be learned ahead of the tough trip to champions-elect France this Saturday night.
“Ireland was a game we could have won. It is a sign we haven’t got the belief to nail those games,” Johnson said.
“I was frustrated with some of the penalties we gave away. We gave the ball back so cheaply in the first half. We did some very good things and did some silly things.
“It added up to us not finishing off. Ultimately it was a tale of missed chances. Floody’s [Toby Flood] kick was a couple of metres short at the end; it is those small margins.
“We just need to take that next step. As a team we have to find a way to win. We are trying to get better and trying to improve. Next week will be a step up from there. We have to stay with France because they try to blow you off the park in the first 20 minutes.”
Johnson did, however, insist his side were improving by the game. “There is progress and improvement,” he added. “You have to go through disappointments to improve. Having frustrations is part of building a team for the future.”