RFU to view Lancaster's application

Stuart Lancaster

Published: 10:12pm, 5th February 2012
Updated: 11:04am, 6th February 2012

Stuart Lancaster confirmed he has applied for the full-time England coach's job after guiding England to a physical 13-6 Calcutta Cup victory over Scotland.

The interim coach's application to be Martin Johnson's permanent successor may have been lodged with the Rugby Football Union but his CV already needs updating after a successful start to England's "new era".

"My application has gone in," said Lancaster, who will be up against candidates recommended by city head-hunters Odgers. "To take the head coaching job of England and to get the first win was the greatest feeling I have had in rugby."

Lancaster required two stitches to his hand after accidentally punching a light fitting in the coaches' box as he celebrated Charlie Hodgson's try in the early moments of the second half.

Hodgson's converted try, following a charged-down Dan Parks kick, proved the difference on the scoreboard but England's victory was founded on the character, unity and pride Lancaster has been building in his new-look squad.

"I punched the ceiling light and split my finger when Charlie scored," Lancaster added. "I asked the doc after the game whether it needed to be looked at and he put in two stitches!

"It was the first time Andy Farrell, Graham Rowntree and I had worked together in a game. There was a mixture of nerves and excitement.

"There was a responsibility and a pressure to provide the performance, particularly given we had taken over a group that was struggling.

"It has been pretty tough for England since the World Cup quarter-final game against France.

"We have not won here since 2004 and to have come away with a win has hopefully given people at home something to smile about."