With Round Four of the 2022 Six Nations having come to a dramatic conclusion, all eyes turn to Paris next weekend.
A 13-9 victory over Wales in Cardiff kept France top of the pile while England’s home loss to Ireland knocks them out of the race.
England’s red card woes
An early red card for Charlie Ewels saw England reduced to 14 men early in their clash with Ireland.
Shortly after this, Michael Lowe crossed for the away side’s first try of the afternoon.
Despite the man advantage, England actually managed to level the scores through the boot of Marcus Smith.
With only seven minutes on the clock Ireland scored twice to seal a bonus point victory at Twickenham.
Close call in Cardiff
Despite their dominance this year, France struggled against a strong Welsh performance at the Principality Stadium.
Anthony Jelonch scored in nine minutes to hand the away side a seven-point lead after a conversion.
Wales clawed their way back into the game with two Dan Biggar penalties bring the score to Wales 9-10 France at half-time.
However, Melvyn Jaminet converted another penalty in the 47th minute and they were the last points of the game.
A 13-9 victory sends France back home to Paris for Le Crunch with England to seal their first Six Nations since 2010.
They secured a Grand Slam that year as well.
Seven in a row for Italy in the Six Nations
Elsewhere, a spirited Italy have finished bottom of the Six Nations for the seventh time in a row.
Despite a brace from debutant Agne Capuozzo the Azzurri never really stood a chance as Scotland grabbed their second victory since beating England on day one.
Italy still have Wales to face next weekend and even if they somehow bonus pointed them they would be last place.
A grim statistic for the side who have been improving year on year.
So, who’s going to win the Six Nations?
France look in the best position to win the Six Nations title this year.
Four wins from four, 18 points on the board and the second most tries scored after Ireland.
If England are to beat France in Paris and Ireland run out victors in Belfast then the men in green will claim another title.
However, if England lose to France then the dream is over for Ireland and France will claim the trophy.
The irony of Ireland’s predicament is clear to see, thrash England in their own backyard then have your hopes on them for a title.
Eddie Jones is a consummate professional though and will want England to finish their Six Nations with a big win.
Andy Farrell will be licking his lips at the prospect of disturbing what has been a phenomenal run for France.
All will become clear next weekend; the games start at 14:15pm with Wales vs Ireland and all three will be played on Saturday March 19.
(Featured pic under creative commons by Copyright: Fanny Schertzer)
