The pressure is mounting on England Saxons to retain their fourth consecutive Churchill Cup this Sunday (June 21, ko 2.30pm, local time).
But, for Sale Sharks' Chris Jones (pictured) the pressure is another incentive to put in a performance. "The pressure is good it builds a competitive edge and makes the guys raise their game." said Jones
"We have fantastic players and something that we have always talked about was not getting complacent. We don't want to be the team that loses the record."
Unbeaten in 13 matches since June 2006, Saxons will take on Ireland A at Dick's Sporting Goods park, Denver on Sunday.
And, Jones knows the squad need to step up if they are to walk away with the silverware. "We are going to have to reach another level when we face Ireland A." continued Jones.
"They will be used to playing at high intensity and after three phases against USA there were gaps around the field, I don't think it will be as easy as that this week."
Having not performing to their best against Argentina Jaguars, where they struggled to squeeze a 28-20 victory, England Saxons returned to Infinity Park, Denver last Sunday to put the hosts to the sward (17-56).
"I think all the players felt relief after Sunday's match. Our previous victory over Argentina was a bit disappointing so it was nice to get a good performance and celebrate the win.
You can watch the Saxons take on Ireland A this Sunday (June 21) live on Sky Sports 2 (kick off 2.30pm local time, 9.30pm UK time).
2009 Churchill Cup fixtures and results
Saturday, June 6
England Saxons 28 - 20 Argentina Jaguars, Infinity Park, Denver
Sunday, June 14
USA 17-56 England Saxons, Infinity Park, Denver
Sunday June 21
Dick's Sporting Goods Park
Churchill Cup finals (12.05pm, 2.30pm, 4.45pm)
