Six Nations Drama

An Update After Round Four

F. A. Loxton

WITH THE NORTHERN HEMISPHERE DOMINATING THE INTERNATIONAL RUGBY UNION SCENE, ahead of the World Cup in September, it’s no wonder that this year’s six nations have made for some gripping clashes. In particular, last weekend’s round four saw some telling fixtures, with both struggling and triumphant teams made around the grounds.

In the opening clash of the round, the Welsh faced Italy, with both sides battling to find form and escape the wooden spoon. Starting strongly, Wales established an early lead through the boot of Owen Williams, and backed this up with a try from Rio Dyer. The Italians, however, remained determined, hoping to record their first win of the tournament, with their best opportunity yet against Wales. Amidst a strong effort, a lack of discipline cost the side the match, with two yellow cards and a penalty try allowing Wales their first win. Although a late try made things interesting, the Welsh had too great a margin, perhaps forecasting some promise, as they face a strong French lineup next week.

The most significant match of the round was the England vs France clash at Twickenham, a fixture which has seen England win their last 10 matches. Following the surprise dropping of Marcus Smith earlier in the tournament, the young flyhalf returned to the ten jersey, as Owen Farrell started on the bench. This meant, Ellis Genge had his debut match as captain, having shown consistent form throughout the last few years. However, what was predicted to be a tight England win, was anything but that as France dominated the English from the outset. Thomas Ramos established an early lead of ten points, before Thibaud Flament crashed over to provide the side a seventeen point lead in twenty five minutes. The rest of the first half saw France dominate possession entirely, breaking the English line a concerning amount of times. Whilst Freddie Steward showed some promise early in the second half, the onslaught continued as a further four tries were scored in the final quarter of the match. Overall, England were completely outclassed by the French; as they remain in strong form in the leadup to their home World Cup in September.

In the final match of the round, the world number one Irish team took on Scotland in Edinburgh. Starting strong, Ireland capitalized on an early penalty, establishing a 3-point lead through Johnny Sexton. Although, this was short lived with Huw Jones crashing over, bringing the home fans to their feet. Going into the half, Ireland held a one point lead after a responding try in the 28th minute, and a brilliant backline performance which built on their lead in the second half. Much to the disappointment of the sell out crowd, the game was sealed through a Jack Conan try, confirming the Irish as outright leaders of the six nations, as they look to raise the Triple Crown, with a win over England next Saturday. 

In next week’s final round, the three fixtures look to be interesting, with France facing the struggling Welsh, and England in great position to provide an upset, amidst their troubled form. Scotland also face Italy which should see them finish third on the ladder, a commendable performance considering France and Ireland are first and second in the world rankings. Ultimately the tournament so far has answered many questions for the upcoming rugby world cup, and the tough northern hemisphere matches have provided all six sides with excellent preparation for the biggest tournament in rugby, starting in September.