The Six Nations Tournament under way - February 4, 2024

So, the first weekend of Six Nations rugby is complete and the markers have been laid down for what should be another terrific, but predictable competition.

France hosted Ireland on Feb. 2 in Marseille and lost to a rampaging Irish side which, like Les Bleus, seem determined to push the RWC’23 disappointment far behind them. In a highly entertaining match, France were under pressure right from the start and losing lock Willemse after just 30 minutes when he incurred his second yellow (automatic red card) made the climb back into contention impossible. Never getting their nose in front, France lost 17-38 and so were denied even a losing bonus point and sit bottom of the table after 1 round.

England traveled to Rome to face Italy in the Stadio Olimpico and were mightily relieved to run out winners, 24-27. England’s new look side included 5 new caps (3 starters and 2 subs who played) but seemed to contain much of the old playbook - 2 or 3 phases, then kick downfield. Italy, in contrast, played some inspired attacking rugby and went in at half time up 17-14; this was the performance the team was hoping to provide at the World Cup, but didn’t. England woke up in H2 and played some better rugby but the opposition will be stiffer from now on (starting with Wales at Twickenham on Feb. 10).

Scotland have not beaten Wales in Cardiff for 22 years so Saturday’s game was momentous in more ways than one. The game itself was literally a game of 2 halves: Scotland dominated in H1 and Wales seemed confused and powerless to do much about it, going in 0-20 at the break. With Scotland scoring another try in the 43rd minute (0-27) it looked all over but Wales disagreed. A volley of tries and penalties took Wales back to within a point but a victory was not to be. However, pride was restored in the highly entertaining come back with Wales losing 26-27, but walked off with 2 bonus points which could prove important later in the tournament..

Next up: (Feb. 10) Scotland vs. France; England vs. Wales; (Feb. 11) Ireland vs. Italy.