Six Nations: Round 4 Predictions

This weekend looks crucial in deciding the Six Nations title, with Ireland facing France in Dublin. A home win there should all but seal the Irish Grand Slam, with Italy left to play in the final round.

A France win, however, throws things open again, putting both France and England back into contention.



Here are my Six Nations predictions for Round 4.

Ireland v France

France looked outstanding against Wales in the opening round and we all gushed over their effortless attacking game. Against England, they took effortless to a new level and despite having several chances to win the game, they somehow let it slip. They showed how angry they were the following week against Italy and scored 73 points, and I think they’ll fancy their chances here.

Meanwhile, Ireland have been effective but not devastating, and this game will be determined by how well the Irish defence can contain the heavyweight French pack and potent attacking threats. My hunch says that France have more gears than Ireland at the moment, and if they both play to their potential, France can win.

I am torn because I’d rather Ireland or England lift the trophy, but I also quite like the idea of a tense finale next week, so I’m going to pick a French victory. Prediction: France by 2

Scotland v Wales

Wales looked to have a bit more about them in Round 3 in their first match since the departure of Warren Gatland, and they are a little more unpredictable now with nothing to lose. This could be a very entertaining game if both sides look to play with width, and a high-scoring game could throw up an unexpected result, but I’m certainly not brave enough to pick a Welsh victory at the moment. Prediction: Scotland by 11

England v Italy

This is an opportunity for England to build on their two recent victories, regardless of how fortunate they were to win both of those games. They’ll want to tighten up their defence as Italy have the capability to test them in the wider channels where they have looked vulnerable, and it’s a chance for Fin Smith to make a statement at fly-half as the conductor of England’s attacking game. England should win fairly comfortably in front of their own fans. Prediction: England by 18

How do you see this weekend’s games going?