6 Nations Round 4 – It’s Not Over Yet

Round 4 has resulted in what is sure to be an epic final round next weekend. With Ireland, England and Wales all still capable of claiming the trophy either outright or on points difference. The games that led us to this point were thrilling and the weekend started with a classic test match.

Wales v Ireland 23-16

Ireland seemed shocked to find themselves falling behind an aggressive Wales, who took the first half by storm thanks to Leigh Halfpenny successfully capitalising on numerous penalties. Ireland weren’t going to let the Grand Slam go without a fight though. What followed was some of the best rugby we have seen in this 6 Nations, with the Wales defence holding out against a ferocious Ireland in over 30 phases.

Wales be like… #WALvIRE pic.twitter.com/f6z4wZGU66

— Lloydy (@TheGarwBoy) March 14, 2015

Ireland now have to rely on Wales and England losing next weekend to win or smashing Scotland to win on the best points difference.

England v Scotland 25-13

England looked like they were setting up to thrash Scotland when they scored one try and had several try scoring chances that were only stopped by Scotland’s last man, Stuart Hogg, in the first 15 minutes.

When England butcher so much space, no-one can hear me scream #ENGvSCO

— James Hubbard (@JamesHubbard113) March 14, 2015

This lead many to be surprised at half time when Scotland went to the changing rooms with a 3 point lead (The first time ever Scotland have ended the first half ahead of England at Twickenham). The sheer volume of chance England were making eventually paid off and the home team dominated in the 2nd half. The return of Courtney Lawes was especially welcome for a team that had been failing to apply pressure at times in the last few weeks.

Italy v France 0-29

A cold and wet day in Rome led to messy and mistake riddled play on the pitch. In a game that could be crucial in the fight to not be at the bottom of the table, it was easy to see why these teams were in that fight. Handling errors were rife but France managed to head in at halftime with a 9 point lead.

Stand by my earlier assessment, messiest half of #6nations rugby since Ireland/England in 2013 #ITAvFRA

— Nick Entwistle (@NickEntwistle) March 15, 2015

The second half was a different story. Italy were unable to get back in the game and France managed to dominate the home side. Both teams however will need to improve before the Rugby World Cup in September if they wish to escape their groups.

One Round to Go

With 3 teams still in the title race, next weekend promises to be a high scoring and tense affair. Will England, Ireland or Wales get the most points to lift the trophy? Let us know in the comments who you think will be taking home the silverware.