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The tension between Gregor Townsend and Finn Russell has escalated, Italy’s status is under threat and a drink after the match could be just the thing to cool tempers
Coaches talk about winning the collisions as a prerequisite to victory and Saturday showed why. Ireland controlled the gainline against Wales in defence and attack, although their one disappointment would have been giving away the greater number of penalties against opponents who were on the back foot. Ireland contested the breakdown where Wales missed Josh Navidi. CJ Stander has made his reputation as a strong ball-carrier, but he ensured victory over Scotland with a late turnover penalty and he was again prominent in defence, slowing down possession and paving the way for turnovers. Ireland did not overplay their dominance at forward, looking to spread the ball wide. Their forwards carried for a total of 74 metres, fewer than Jacob Stockdale on the wing, with Ireland scenting defensive weakness wider out. Continue reading...