RBS 6 Nations 2010
Matchday 3 of the RBS 6 Nations 2010 takes place this weekend. All eyes will be on Twickenham as England (unbeaten in 2) host Grand Slam holders Ireland in what will be a highly competitive clash.
The England starting XV shows no changes from the side that defeated Italy. On the other hand, Ireland make 4 changes to side that was outclassed by France. Notably Leinster’s Johnny Sexton replaces Ronan O’Gara. Sexton was impressive in the Autumn Internationals and his excellent performances recently for Leinster have been duly noted by the national coach Declan Kidney.
On the downside Leo Cullen, who was a stand-out performer in the loss to France, drops to the bench and is replaced by Munster man Donnacha O’Callaghan. He will part Paul O’Connell in the second row. At hooker, Rory Best replaces the suspended Jerry Flannery.
On paper, Ireland are far stronger than England (who have been poor in their 2 wins). This is a huge test for England and their coach Martin Johnson. A standout bet for me is Ireland’s winning margin to be 6-10 points, nicely priced at PaddyPower.com at 11/2.
Elsewhere, the formidable French side make the trip to Cardiff on Friday night to face Wales. France coach Marc Lievremont is forced to make two changes; Julien Malzieu replaces Vincent Clerc on the right wing, while Julien Bonnaire comes in for Ouedraogo at openside. Wales make five changes to the side that defeated Scotland. Notably Ritchie Rees replaces Gareth Cooper at scrum-half.
Wales are 2/1 to gain a win on Friday night while Les Bleus are currently 4/11. France will prove too strong and once again the stand-out bet for me is France’s winning margin to be 6-10 points, currently priced up at 9/2.
Finally, Scotland (4/7) travel to the Stadio Flaminio to face Italy. Both teams are in search of their first win in the RBS 6 Nations 2010. Italy will fancy their chances at home, and with Scotland suffering a heart-wrenching defeat to Wales in Cardiff recently I’m taking Italy (11/8) to cause an upset.
