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John Mitchell affirms England will continue to be "dominant" in tackles

:Headline: John Mitchell affirms England will continue to be 'dominant' in tackles: ID:436442: from db_amp
The England defence coach spoke as the game looks to reduce instances of concussion.

England defence coach John Mitchell insists the recent spate of red cards must not deter players from making dominant tackles.

Five dismissals scarred the weekend's round of Gallagher Premiership action while two players have been sent off in the Guinness Six Nations, Ireland's Peter O'Mahony of Ireland and Zander Fagerson of Scotland.

It comes amid an ongoing crackdown on dangerous play, especially involving the head, as the game looks to reduce instances of concussion.

Ireland flanker Peter O'Mahony was sent off for dangerous play at the ruck against Wales, (Niall Carson/PA)

England resume their Six Nations title defence against Wales in Cardiff on Saturday mindful of the need to win the battle on the gainline, while understanding the zero-tolerance approach to any challenge involving the head.

"The only thing we can control is making sure we are disciplined in our practise in terms of the height of our tackles," Mitchell said.

"That gives players a better chance to not be sanctioned, but ultimately you still really want to be dominant in your contact.

"The one way around it is that we continue to practice tackle dominance in the best possible way that is going to give the players the best chance of not receiving sanction.

"We can't control the mitigating circumstances for slipping or sudden changes from high to low, so it's a matter of making sure we practise the right height.

"These games often go down to the wire. We're really looking forward to it and wanting to show what we're capable of for the rest of the Six Nations.

"Its one of those occasions that means a lot to both countries and the players. It's something that countries can get behind.

"Both countries have had sustained success, but none of that really matters when it comes to playing against each other. The historical background is always there in the contest.

"Wales are playing really well. They've got good balance to their game and are more aggressive.

"Wayne's been in the game a long time and you can clearly see his philosophy come through in terms of playing the game at speed and wanting to move the ball.

"Like any good coach, you have to learn quickly at the highest level when you don't get things right.

"You have to take your hat off to him because at the moment they're playing really good rugby."

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