6 Nations 2012 Ireland Versus Italy Preview

Too many people are thinking of security instead of opportunity. They seem more afraid of life than death- James F. Byrnes.


Opportunities lie in front of both Ireland and Italy in their Six Nations tie this weekend. For Ireland a win will restore momentum and hope for the remainder of this years tournament. For Italy a win over Ireland, especially away from home will represent a landmark achievement as they will have defeated every side in the tournament with the exception of England.

Indeed Italy over the years have had many great chances to defeat Ireland in this prestigious competition. Undoubtedly Italy's rugby empire should have toppled Ireland last year. Ireland were fortunate enough to have Ronan O'Gara save their blushes with a last minute drop goal to seal an undeserved victory.

Italy certainly put in some hugely promising performances last year. Yet those performances were the culmination of years of hard work rather than the dawn of a bright new era. The Italians come to Dublin tomorrow minus the Bergamasco brothers as well as the powerful Martin Castrogiovanni and Andrea Lo Cicero.

If ever Italy were going to beat Ireland it was last year.  The World Cup meeting allied with last years rendez-vous only emphasises that Italy are still not quite up there with Europe's elite and now they must rebuild all over again.

On the other hand this game offers Ireland an opportunity to put right the wrongs of the Wales match. Certainly a victory of any kind will not make up for the loss to Wales but a win and a good performance are integral for Ireland.

It would be hoped that the defence will be far more aggressive than three weeks ago. It was more than disconcerting the ease with which Wales waltzed up the field in the final play of their classic in the Aviva. Ireland's defence was far too passive and Ireland sorely missed Brian O'Driscoll's influence in this sector.

Declan Kidney as is his wont has shown loyalty to the starting fifteen who lined out against Wales. Having put 30 points on Italy in a do or die encounter in New Zealand it would be a disaster if Ireland were to falter at home in a game where they need a win more.

If the back row and Johnny Sexton and Conor Murray can fire Ireland should win with ease. If not, another dog fight with the gutsy Italians awaits.  The final result will lie somewhere in between.

Prediction: Ireland by 14




England Versus Wales
The vast majority of pundits see Wales recording another victory at Twickenham. The Welsh certainly have been the form team of the tournament so far but England away represents a hugely tough assignment for Warren Gatland's men.

Admittedly Wales deserve to be favourites but this game will be closer than many think. The reintroduction of Manu Tuilagi will give England much needed ballast in midfield whilst Ben Morgan will add a great deal more dynamism at the back of the scrum

Wales however welcome back their captain and talisman Sam Warburton whilst Alun-Wyn Jones also returns to the fray. England will throw the kitchen sink at Wales tomorrow. However I think Wales will be able to soak up enough pressure and throw the the dishwasher back in what will be an enormously physical contest.


Prediction: Wales by 4




Scotland Versus France
Scotland have been a hugely hit and miss force thus far whilst France barely got out of third gear against Italy on the first weekend. Scotland's extra game will certainly aid them as they will be more cohesive. Greg Laidlaw at out half will allow Scotland to play with a degree more freedom in the backs.

Yet their is an inevitability about this game. As is always the case it all will depend on which France outfit turns up. Under a new coach when a Grand Slam is very achievable it is hard not to see France triumphing in Murrayfield. Scotland will continue to play with the same heart and hope they have already displayed in this years competition

Alas more will be needed to defeat this French side.

Prediction: France by 11