Ireland v Italy
Over last 3 years, Ireland have won by 16, 11, 10... so are Italy getting better/closer? Probably. At least Italy are now playing 80 mins so where I was always keen on ht handicap, am now more confident about the ft element. Ireland are stronger (almost to a man) 11-15, but that big ugly Italian pack are doing the biz last 3 games. Have been on Italy all the way through, and am not jumping off now. But am taking all the handicap available.
Pez had one drop-kick pop last week (in the 2nd half and almost hit the corner flag
) but, heck, 33-1 at Lads again
Italy +14.5 at 5/6 at 24pts
First scoring play - Italy drop-goal @ 33-1 at 2pts
France v Scotland
Scotland slowly improving and a decent enough pack and Patterson boot (19 out of 19 last 6N kicks) might be enough to keep them in it. Lamont is having a great tournie on the wing for Scotland... if only he could get more ball.
France to do their oftentimes SdeF trick of pulling away in 2nd half but they have a fair bit of handicap to cover. And it depends on how young Beauxis goes at stand-off.
Scotland +10 ht @ 10/11 at 11pts
Sean Lamont first try @ 16-1 2pts
Harinordoquy first try @ 25-1 2pts
Wales v England
If this was at Twickenham, surely the handicap would be 12 or 14 on exposed form. Is Cardiff that big for Wales? I don't think so. Am sure this handicap is too low (but have made similar remarks for past 6 weeks
).
England +2 @10/11 at 22pts
.GIF "Thumb(1)")
Six Nations Rugby - 2007
