Volcano' primed for controlled explosion

Tongan juggernaut Vainikolo has endured a frustrating introduction to the Test arena following his high-profile switch from rugby league.Although he created a try fogr Toby Flood in England's tournament opener against Wales three weeks ago, attacking opportunities have been at a premium.But 'The Volcano' is still bubbling, relishing an opportunity to erupt at the Stade de France Saturday night.He said: "I've had to pinch myself during the first two games to make sure I was really there. It has been an honour to put the England jersey on."I wouldn't change anything, and I am just going to stay positive and do what I do best."For me, it has been about getting to know different players. I am still learning."And it's not only about scoring tries, you want to do the hard yards as well. Sometimes, you don't get the ball for 10 or 15 minutes."In rugby league, I would touch the ball 20 times-plus per game. In union, it is about being patient and doing the little things right."England have not beaten France away in the Six Nations since February 2000 - Vainikolo was playing for Australian rugby league side Canberra Raiders at the time - and early form this season suggests that wait could be extended by another two years.
While England lost at home to Wales for the first time since 1988, then struggled past Italy, France brushed aside Scotland and held off Ireland despite new coach Marc Lievremont blooding several unknowns.Vainikolo, though, insisted: "It will come. This is our third week together, and we are understanding more."I have got to be patient. If I get the ball, I will make the most of it. Yes, I get frustrated, but th's the way the game is."I will be hunting for the ball, don't worry."
England captain Phil Vickery has called on his plays to take "ownership and responsibility" for their performances this weekend.The World Cup finalists blew a 13-point lead to Wales, then eight days later they almost sacrificed a 14-point advantage at Stadio Flaminio before hanging on for an unimpressive 23-19 success.The jury remains undecided on Vickery's England.
Are they no better than those results suggest, or are they about to stun the French and batter Les Bleus in their own backyard?Either way, Vickery knows the talking must stop and England have to deliver.He said: "I am under no illusions about what lies ahead for us, but I am really positive about it."We have to improve, go out and perhaps show a level to our game we haven't seen yet. If we don't then it is going to be a very difficult proposition."We are going to be coming up against a team on the weekend who, four months ago, were knocked out of the semi-finals of the World Cup in their home country in front of their home support.