Wales won't need a crowd to be motivated against England, says Owens

Welsh hooker Ken Owens has indicated that the lack of supporters at the Principality Stadium will do little to alter his side’s fired-up mindset as they prepare to face the English in Round 3 of the 2021 Six Nations on 27 February.

In light of recent results, Wales have strung together a good two rounds, first beating the Irish 21-16 and then downing a buoyant Scottish outfit 25-24 at Marrayfield in Round 2. Things finally seem to be looking up for Alun Wyn Jones’ charges.

“It obviously does have an effect not having a crowd because you feed off the energy of the fans and that atmosphere pushes you on,” said Owens, 34.

“But it’s something we’ve got to deal with and learn to adapt to. We’ve had enough time and everybody’s in the same boat.

“As a professional player there’s no real excuse. You have to find your own motivation and the energy to play at the intensity needed at Test level.

“So far it feels exactly at the level we’ve had in previous years playing in the Six Nations. The two games we’ve played have been really physical, top-end Test matches.

“No-one really expected anything from us coming into the competition this year – we’ve gone under the radar in the first two weeks.

“But it’s similar how the games are set up, a week off leading into England with areas to improve and step up. It’s about momentum and keeping it up there.”