Six Nations Preview: Round Two

Italy v England (4pm Sat)
England are a best price 2/7 (Coral) to beat Italy and one must question whether the teams are that far apart. At Murrayfield Scotland enjoyed 35 minutes of possession, compared to England’s 23 minutes. Against a more clinical side England would have lost.

Italy are also on a rebuilding mission but showed more attacking verve against the French than many expected. The Italians mustered three line-breaks where as England managed just the one.

Stuart Lancaster was pleased with a first win but it was a result that would have been met with jeers in the Martin Johnson era. These are different times for English and Italian rugby but the prices are stuck in the past.

Verdict: Italy to win by 1 to 5 points 7/1 with Sportingbet

France v Ireland (8pm Sat)
Ireland will be smarting from their defeat on Sunday. Billed as a revenge mission, they were more like a James Bond villain, freeing their nemesis when on the verge of world domination. Despite the lapse in concentration, Ireland showed enough quality to suggest they will give France a game in Paris.

New boss Philippe Saint-Andre had a gentle introduction to the 6 Nations as his side had too much quality for Italy, with Louis Picamoles particularly impressive. This weekend will tell us if France are the real deal but at 1/3 (Sportingbet) the bookmakers might have drawn their conclusions too soon.

Verdict: Ireland to win at 7/2 with Betfred

Wales v Scotland (3pm Sun)
Wales overcame the sin-binning of Bradley Davies to seal a dramatic win at the Aviva Stadium. Questions had been asked whether their squad could cope with an ever-growing injury list, but notable cameos from Justin Tipuric and James Hook showcased strength in depth. A home win at 1/8 (Coral) is unappealing but the impressive George North looks a good bet to be the first try scorer at 7/1 with Betfred.

It is the usual story with Scotland, an inability to score tries preventing them from winning games they dominate. Greig Laidlaw comes in at fly-half a move hastened by the retirement of Dan Parks. Changes might have been made regardless, and with Scotland A thrashing the England Saxons 35-0 last weekend the future might still shine bright.

Verdict: George North first try scorer at 7/1 with Betfred.