# Prem players must master defence for England success

> England A coach warns prem stars need better defence to reach international level.
- Title: Prem players must master defence for England success
- Summary: England A coach warns prem stars need better defence to reach international level. England A head coach Mark Mapletoft says prem players must improve…
- Keywords: breaking, mark mapletoft, england a, prem, defence, rugby, england, club rugby, sports, players, must, master
- Source: The Rugby Paper — https://therugbypaper.co.uk/latest-news/496353/mapletoft-defence-is-as-important-as-attack
- Author: Ben Jaycock
- Published: 2026-11-01T03:59:57+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: breaking, mark mapletoft, england a, prem, defence, rugby, england, club rugby, sports
## England A head coach warns
England A head coach Mark Mapletoft says prem players must improve defensive skills to reach international level.
## Prem free-scoring stars struggle
The one-cap England fly-half has watched prem attacking displays but believes english clubs in europe show defence is key.
## Defence critical for international success
Mapletoft, head of england pathways, insists best international sides are built on preventing points.
## Key takeaway

England A head coach Mark Mapletoft says prem players must improve defensive skills to succeed with England.