Wales will look to keep their Grand Slam hopes alive when they travel to Murrayfield to face Scotland on Saturday the 9th of March.
Scotland v Wales
9 March 16h15
BT Murrayfield Stadium
To Win (80 mins)
Scotland 16/10
Draw 20/1
Wales 5/10
Warren Gatland’s men saw off England 21-13 a fortnight ago to strengthen their grip on the title race as the tournament heads into its penultimate weekend.
That display at the Principality Stadium was built around solid set plays and a phenomenal kicking and aerial game. Liam Williams was particularly impressive as the hosts looked to gain territory via a series of high bombs from first Gareth Anscombe and then replacement Dan Biggar.
The latter was instrumental in Wales’ late push for points, with his booming right boot and superb game management coming to the fore in a big way. Alun Wyn Jones’ captaincy too played a massive role, and one would expect a similar showing from the living legend this weekend.
Another Welsh win will leave them one away from a Grand Slam. Such is the competitiveness of the Championship at present, however, that it is not inconceivable to see them finish as low as third. The visitors can take nothing for granted, especially coming up against a wounded Scottish outfit.
Gregor Townsend’s side were left fuming after their dreadful 27-10 loss in Paris in round three. Coming into another season with such high hopes, their performances have left a lot to be desired.
That said, they will welcome back Finn Russell at first five and can expect the Murrayfield faithful to act as a 16th man come Saturday. They can still finish ahead of France as the competition draws to a close, which will stand them in good stead ahead of the World Cup in September.
If Scotland can match Wales for physicality, they may be able to have a say with ball in hand. However, if the Dragons can match the intensity and vigour they displayed in their last outing, they should be far too much for their opponent to handle.
Verdict: Wales by 10-points or more
Wales have everything going for them and should have enough class and experience to come away from Edinburgh with another win.
