6 Nations report
?France reminds us of rugby’s attraction.
At a time when competition for sports vast army of supporters, thirsty for success and tickets has never been more keenly fought; France reminds us of the beauty of rugby when it is played with fluency and style. Even losing supporters must acknowledge the beauty of the oval ball game when France turns it on!
Is Ireland on the decline? England were booed at Allianz against Scotland. Wales are struggling to re-emerge as an entertaining outfit. Are their players good enough? Scotland cannot win 5 games on the trot. Italy need only win one to justify their place in the 6 Nations, and that came against Wales
Ireland was extremely competitive in their battle with France but lacked the touch of attacking class that saw France home. (27-42) Scotland has classy players in Russell and Jones but fail to kill teams off. England is a patchwork team occasionally playing a forward-based style that dominates their opponents, but the flowing team play is missing. (47-24) Italy had recovered from the mauling France gave them by 73 points. They have moments of stylish productive play that produce points, but not enough of those moments. It’s back to the drawing board for Italy.
In Super rugby both Pacific Island teams won. Fiji beat table toppers, the Chiefs 28-24. Moana Pacifica beat the Hurricanes 40-31. Moana’s signing of All-Black superstar Ardea Savea has installed a level of belief that makes them a threat to whoever they play, and they did score 40 points!
Around the world, Pacific Islanders excite with their instinctive play. They put bums on seats. European scouts are now trawling the villages looking for the pacific islander superstars of the future.
The second half of the Blues v Brumbies reminded me of how boring rugby can become. A forward-orientated struggle, of you run into us and then we will run into you. It did produce a one-point win for the Brumbies, but the continuation of this style of play will affect attendances.
Next week is the final round of 6 Nations matches. France can win the Championship if they beat Scotland in Paris, but it will be without Dupont who has a long-term knee injury. Ireland should put Italy to the sword in Rome, and the whole of Wales will be behind their side as they face England in Cardiff. A win for Wales would re-invigorate the code in Wales. A loss for England and Borthwick’s tenure as coach may come to an end.
Mike Penistone
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