Before the halfway games of the Six Nations tournament, we take a look at each nation’s performances.
In what has been an unusual tournament, with a total of zero fans in attendance, there has still been some great rugby for fans to watch all over the world.
With two rounds of the tournament now completed, and a highly-anticipated third weekend coming up, we take a look at every team’s performances in the competition so far.
England
Defending champions England started the tournament with a very underwhelming performance, resulting in an 11-6 loss in the Calcutta Cup against Scotland. Eddie Jones’ men simply “weren’t good enough” and received a lot of criticism for their display.
However, in the following game against Italy, England seemed to address the problems, and it was business as usual in a 41-18 win against the Italians.
Scotland
For Scotland, the 11-6 win in the Calcutta Cup was a surprising one, but one that was thoroughly deserved after seeing the poor England performance.
However, the following weekend resulted in a very close 25-24 loss to Wales. Almost being brought back down to Earth, Scotland now find themselves needing to bounce back to maintain some form of momentum.
Unfortunately for the Scots, their upcoming game is in doubt, after 10 France players have tested positive for Covid-19. Therefore, they may have to wait almost two weeks for their next Six Nations match.
Wales
Wales have made a very strong start to the tournament, winning both of their openers. Both games have been tough, with a five point win against 14-man Ireland, and one point between them and Scotland in a 25-24 win in weekend no.2.
Now level with France, the Welsh side will be looking to build on the momentum they’ve gained, but face a tough contest against England. Both ultimately need a win, but Wales will want the win to put the pressure on France to match their tournament record.
Ireland
Admittedly, Ireland haven’t had the greatest start, coming away from the first two games without a win.
In their first game, they went down to 14-men early on in the game, which took a toll on the rest of the game despite a tough battle shown by the Irish.
Then, a close encounter with France saw them lose by two points, but ultimately it has not helped their case of a Six Nations win. They will be looking to bounce back against Italy, as they travel to the Stadio Olimpico, taking on a side who haven’t won a Six Nations game in over five years.
France
Leading the 2021 Six Nations is France, who have fought hard to gain wins from both of their matches. However, they have had some impressive performances in their wins, and look in control going into the midpoint of the competition.
A dominant victory in the opening weekend against Italy, followed by a close affair with Ireland
However, this weekend 10 French players have tested positive for coronavirus, which puts their upcoming battle against Scotland in doubt, as the French camp is currently in isolation.
Italy
Disappointing, underwhelming, poor – these are just some words that can be used to describe Italy’s performance in the Six Nations. The Italians have now lost 30 consecutive games in the prestigious tournament – ouch.
Italy have already suffered two heavy losses in this tournament, losing 10-50 against France and 18-41 against England.
With a goal difference of -63, it’s safe to say that Italy will only be looking to avoid a whitewash this tournament, as well as not wanting yet another wooden spoon.
Their next matchup is at home to the Irish side who also come into the game without a Six Nations win, but will be considered favourites against Italy.
