Even losing supporters must acknowledge the beauty of the oval ball game when France turns it on, as they did in their 42-27 statement win against Ireland on Saturday (Mar 8) in Paris.
The win emphasised France’s current superiority and left commentators asking whether Ireland could be on the decline? Similarly, England were booed at home against Scotland, a team who currently struggle to win consecutive games, while Wales are struggling to re-emerge as an entertaining outfit and Italy need only win one to justify their place in the 6 Nations. It begs the question whether their respective players are simply good enough?
Ireland was extremely competitive in their battle with France but lacked the touch of attacking class that saw France home. Scotland has classy players in Russell and Jones but fail to kill teams off. England are a patchwork team occasionally playing a forward based style that dominates their opponents, but the flowing team play is missing.
Italy had recovered from the mauling France gave them by 73 points to demonstrate moments of stylish productive play which produces points, but there are ultimately not enough of those moments, meaning it’s back to the drawing board.
This weekend sees the final round of matches. France can win the Championship if they beat Scotland in Paris, but will have to do so without star player 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. A win for Wales would re-invigorate the code there. A loss for England and Borthwick’s tenure as coach may come to an end.
BUMS ON SEATS
Meanwhile, in Super rugby both Pacific Island teams won. Fiji beat table toppers the Chiefs 28-24, while 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, evident as they scored 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 super stars of the future.
The second half of the Blues vs 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 continuation of this style of play will affect attendances.
The Global Rugby Coach, Mike Penistone, is a globally renowned professional rugby coach based in Phuket who is also an ambassador for the Asia Center Foundation, a charity for disadvantaged children. For more information visit: www.rugbycoachingconsultancy.com.