There's plenty to talk about after a thrilling start to the 2022 Six Nations while the Bulls and Stormers bagged impressive URC wins. Shaun Goosen looks back at the weekend that was.
Ireland, France canter to wins
Ireland took on a much depleted Wales side at the Aviva in the opening fixture of the championship on Saturday. In a match that was always likely to go south for the visitors, Andy Farrell’s men racked up a comprehensive 29-7 win courtesy of four tries to one. While Wales were admittedly missing over 700 Test caps’ worth of experience, Ireland were sublime at times and remain a side likely to challenge the likes of France for the Six Nations title.
The French bagged a 37-10 win over Italy at the Stade de France on Sunday to go top of the standings on points difference. After a tricky first half in which they were truly tested by the Azzurri, Fabian Galthie’s men finally found their flow and racked up five tries in total to earn a comprehensive victory in the end.
“That’s a watercolour!” 🎨
— Guinness Six Nations (@SixNationsRugby) February 6, 2022
A sweeping move from @FranceRugby secures the bonus points! #FRAvITA #GuinnessSixNations pic.twitter.com/2GgMGlphFB
Scotland make it back-to-back Culcutta Cup victories
Scotland reclaimed the Calcutta Cup after a 20-17 win at Murrayfield, their second win over England in a row. The result also means Gregor Townsend’s side have now held the trophy for four of the last five years as they continue their quest to upset the status quo up north. The likes of No 8 Matt Fagerson and winger Darcy Graham were phenomenal for the hosts, who head to Cardiff this weekend.
As one would imagine, Eddie Jones has come under massive scrutiny since Saturday’s loss, with many questioning his tactics. The Roses tackle Italy this weekend which may give them a chance to paper over some cracks but the knives are certainly out again.
DREAM DEBUT!
— Guinness Six Nations (@SixNationsRugby) February 5, 2022
Ben White scores on his debut for @scotlandteam! 👏
That footwork from Darcy Graham 🔥#SCOvENG #GuinnessSixNations pic.twitter.com/eRZ31PGHsY
Lions thwarted at Loftus, Sharks disappoint again
The Bulls’ 21-13 win over the Lions at Loftus on Saturday was just their third in the URC this season but has now sees them in 12th, level on points with the 11th-placed Sharks. After a lacklustre start to their debut season, Jake White’s men have done well to beat the Lions on consecutive weekends and have a big opportunity to go three from three when they host the Durbanites this weekend.
The Stormers meanwhile dealt Sean Everitt’s side a 20-10 defeat in Cape Town in a result that means they are now the top-ranked South African team in the competition. For the Sharks, their disappointing displays of late may prove costly as they continue to underperform with their excellent squad.
A day to forget in the Vodacom #URC for the Sharks but how good was this try after brilliant work from Am and Ward in the centre to send Williams over the line 🦈 pic.twitter.com/YIZTQsJusv
— SuperSport 🏆 (@SuperSportTV) February 5, 2022
