This weekend sees the fifth and final round of the Guinness Six Nations take place, it is traditionally known as super Saturday and it is sure to deliver.
You have Ireland who are looking for a Six Nations title, as well as Grand Slam for the first time since 2018, however, they’ve got the reigning champs in France hot on their heels. The French will ironically be relying on England to beat Ireland as they are looking to put as many points as they can on the board against a struggling Wales to give them a real chance to win the series.
Finally, you have Scotland who are hosting Italy at Murrayfield, Gregor Townsend’s men will be chasing a third-place spot for just the fifth time in 20 years.
Scotland vs Italy:
This could be the game of the weekend due to how well both teams are playing at the moment. Yes, Italy haven’t recorded a win yet but this is by far the best Six Nations they’ve had in a while and the same could be said for Scotland; both teams have really upped their games.
Italy loves to keep the ball in hand, making the second-highest amount of carries with 520, and the second-highest amount of metres gained with 3203, however, their frustrating errors have let them down in the moments that matter the most. They’ve made the most handling errors as well, 62, out of all the teams.
Italy’s attack has been their most dangerous asset, however, I think Scotland’s will be their defence. Across the competition, they’ve missed the least amount of tackles, 69, whilst also making the second highest amount of tackles, 666, combine this with Italy’s handling errors I think we’ll see a victorious Scotland.
Prediction: Scotland 32-21
France vs Wales:
If last week’s performance against England is anything to go off, this week should go the same.
You’ve got France who are continuing their strong form, whilst Wales, even though they did manage to record their first tournament win last week, are still very much struggling to perform.
Wales have scored the least amount of tries, compared to France, who are joint top with Ireland, with 16 tries. France love to play but only in bursts, they’ve made 319 more metres than Wales but made the least amount of carries, with 449, over the course of the first four rounds.
Another scary prospect is that France have broken the most tackles this tournament, 124, whilst Wales have missed the most amount of tackles.
Prediction: France 40-12
Ireland vs England:
The final game of the competition that could ultimately decide whether France or Ireland win the competition is already a done deal in some people’s eyes. If England hadn’t got destroyed by the French, then there might’ve been more of a sense of positivity heading into this game for English fans, however, after last week’s result, it’ll be a win if Steve Borthwick’s men can keep the score below 30.
Looking at the numbers, a couple of statistics that stand out are the fact that over the past four rounds England have conceded the most turnovers whereas Ireland have turned over opposition ball the most out of every other team.
There’s no need to fully count England out but it’s a huge mountain to climb if they are wanting to beat Ireland away and on the weekend of St Patrick’s day.
Prediction: Ireland 34-25 England
