The three talking points from Week One of the Six Nations we've chosen to focus on are: England's selection dilemma, the possibility of glory for Ireland and Italy's big win over France.
Glory for the men-in-green?
Declan Kidney has been criticised in the past for being too conservative with his selection choices for Ireland but on Saturday his side showed a well-balanced level of both youth and experience.
The two young wings, Simon Zebo and Craig Gilroy, were outstanding and looked ready to go throughout. But, in the centre, two experienced players were kept. Brian O’Driscoll and Gordon D’Arcy were their usual level-headed and efficient selves, showing the importance of getting the basics right.
Ireland executed their victory over Wales with confidence from the off. Zebo’s early try got the ball rolling and despite the late comeback attempt from Wales, they only managed to come within 8 points of Ireland’s final tally of 30 points. Glory for Ireland is definitely a real possibility and their match with England in week two could be a crucial game in the long-term.
Rhys' view on how Wales did:
@scrumfiverugby we arrived 40 mins late!But when we arrived we played some fantastic rugby.Tipuric has to start against France #ScrumFive6N!
— Rhys Meirion (@RhysMeirion) February 3, 2013
A good problem to have
Everyone rugby fan and pundit alike loves a good old selection dilemma and ever since Stuart Lancaster took command of England he's had plenty of them. This week's problem involves the centre partnership. Manu Tuilagi will become available against Ireland next weekend but after a highly impressive performance from debutant Billy Twelvetrees, who not only scored a try but was consistent and powerful throughout, it may be wise of Stuart Lancaster to start with the same pairing of Barritt and Twelvetrees and then consider bringing Tuilagi on as a replacement.
However, Lancaster could put his faith in Twelvetrees and opt to start with two former Leicester teammates with Tuilagi and Twelvetrees side by side.
Other than this centre debate, England have got a solid group of players as well as strength in depth. Their back row trio of Chris Robshaw, Tom Wood and Ben Morgan did their job subtly but superbly and the front five did their job in a very efficient manner. The pack as a whole played a big part in England's victory, working swiftly at the breakdown which allowed Ben Youngs to quickly deliver the ball to Farrell and his lively back line.
Adam's view on Week One:
@scrumfiverugby #ScrumFive6N England 80% good, 20% bit dim. If Ireland only play for 50 mins again next week that might be enough!
— Adam Johnson (@AJ_Capote) February 3, 2013
Watch out for the Azzurri
I was in a state of amazement watching Italy against France. The opening five minutes from the Italians was absolutely sublime and although the tempo did drop, the integrity was still there throughout. The Azzurri is a real threat and placing them in bottom place in my predictions was a huge error - if Wales don't perk up, Italy could be pushing for a place in the top four.
Their victory over France in Rome means that Italy have beaten the 2011 World Cup runners-up two years running - a great achievement for a side still widely considered as a tier-two rugby nation.
What were your thoughts on Week One of the Six Nations?
Discuss: Post a comment below, Tweet @ScrumFiveRugby and use #ScrumFive6N
