Quickfire Q&A: Amber Reed

Congrats on your winning run so far in the Six Nations - how would you assess your team's performances so far?

The way we have built through the competition so far is really positive. We have developed the areas we needed to work on, and we’re pleased to have made such a great start to the competition. We’ve put ourselves in a strong position going into the last two games.

What area is the team most pleased with and what areas require work?

The way we’ve worked as a team is really good – we’re starting to develop our on-field connection, learning how we play and how we can play off each other to get the best out of the team. The way we controlled the game against the Irish and played in the right areas of the pitch, allowed us to build pressure.

Our accuracy has sometime let us down and will be something we’re looking to improve. We will have to make the most of our opportunities against both the Welsh and the French.

The win against Ireland at Twickenham was a big marker - what are you expecting this week against Wales?

Looking at the Wales v France game, the Welsh defence was phenomenal, and that is something to be wary of going into the game on Saturday. We will need patience, to build the phases in our attack and make sure we dominate the physical battle.

People talk plenty about the absence of sevens players, especially in your backline, how does the reality stack up in terms of how the backline gels and is working together?

You can’t avoid that we have some names missing, but we know we have a fantastic opportunity to lay down our marker with new players we have to wear the white shirt and represent their country. Before the last World Cup we were in a similar situation and I believe the strength and depth we devloped in the squad helped to achieve the win and this year provides the same opportunity.

The way we played as a back line against Ireland was really pleasing and I still believe we have a lot more to offer.

There’s a new England coaching set up this season – what’s that been like and how do you think it’s changing England’s game?

I had the pleasure of being coached by Matt Ferguson previously; he has the experience of the men’s game, is clear in his approach, and brings lots of ideas to the team.

Scott Bemand is a thinker of the game and I have learnt a lot by just talking to him about rugby. I think with a new set of players, it’s also exciting to have fresh coaching ideas. Everyone as a squad has bought into the things they’ve brought into the group.

You obviously have tough boots to full at flyhalf - how are you finding the position and experience this year? Does Katy give you any additional insight/tips?

It’s a challenge playing at flyhalf in a white shirt but I’ve had lots of experience playing there at club level. Katy’s main tip was just to do the simplest things well and be confident.

You’re a centre too – which position would you prefer and why?

I have more experience playing centre and so probably feel more confident there, however the skills I’m learning at fly half will ultimately lead to me being a better centre and especially the distribution game I like to play. Having had some time out, I’m just happy to be back out on the pitch wearing the white shirt with a fantastic group of players.