Fans of Southern Hemisphere rugby often scoff at their Northern hemisphere counterparts and the lack of running rugby played. The playing conditions have a great deal to do with it on many occasions. The six nations games at the weekend were certainly not a great deal to write about. Just three tries scored and penalty goal attempts that went off the graph, however it will now all come down to the final game and there is plenty at stake.
England travel to the Millenium stadium in Wales in search of their second title in three years and their first Grand Slam since 2003 – the same year they won the World Cup – following their 18-11 victory over Italy.
A seven point victory could see the title decided on who has scored the most tries in the competition. Wales currently lead on that count 7-5. While if Wales win by a smaller margin England will be crowned Champions but will miss out on the clean sweep, just as they did two years ago in the final game in Dublin.
Added to the intrigue this time around is the fact that this is the last chance for players to stake a claim to be in Warren Gatland’s British and Irish Lions squad heading to Australia.
Opposing flankers Sam Warburton of Wales and England’s Chris Robshaw are front runners to lead the Lions so their on park decisions could determine who gets the nod from Gatland.
England are not playing good rugby at the moment something that former England captain Lawrence Dallaglio has been quoted as saying could work in their favour . “You have to say England have not been at their best but in a funny sort of way going into Cardiff next week its not the worst thing that could happen. If they had run many, many tries the build up would have been very different.”
Rest assured Wales will relish the chance to ruin England’s party. Having been well beaten by Ireland in the opening game they have done well to find themselves in this position. They ground out victory against Scotland 28-18 in a match that featured a world record 18 penalty shots at goal and another record of 13 being successful. An eight point win would see them retain the title they won last year.
Can St George slay the dragon one more time? It will undoubtedly be a game to remember.
