There were big wins for Scotland and England this past weekend while France’s hunt for a first Grandslam since 2010 continues.
Image Copyright – Steve Haag Sports
Scotland earn crucial win
The Scots’ 17-0 win over Italy in Rome all but ensured they wouldn’t finish the season as wooden spoonists. A Stuart Hogg wonder try opened the account on their way to producing a solid performance that will give them a big confidence boost as they head into their penultimate fixture against the mighty French in a fortnight.
Despite the win, Scotland again struggled to convert pressure into points. Whether it’s the absence of a certain Finn Russell or not, Gregor Townsend’s men will need to rectify this aspect of their game if they are to claim more victories in future.
France spoil party in Cardiff
Fabian Galthié’s France again exceeded all expectations on their way to securing a monumental 23-27 result over Wales at the Principality. Saturday’s win was France’s first in Cardiff in 10 years and kept alive their hopes at claiming a first Grand Slam – not to mention first title overall – since 2010.
Romain Ntamack produced a mesmeric performance at flyhalf as his stocks continue to rise. If he can maintain his form going into the final two matches of the tournament – against Scotland at Murrayfield and Ireland at the Stade de France – his nation’s long wait for another title will be over.
England boss Ireland at Twickenham
A Johnny Sexton howler early on may have set the tone for the match, but there’s no shying away from just how dominant England were on Saturday. They totally bossed the collisions with the Irish seemingly without anything to offer going backwards.
With Wales at Twickenham and Italy at the Stadio Olimpico to end off their campaign, England will look to remain in contention for the title and hope for France to slip up. The Irish will look to bounce back from this disappointing defeat and win in Dublin over Italy before travelling to Paris to take on the French.
