Six Nations: Breaking down the good and bad points for all six sides from round two

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  • England and Ireland inched closer to a Six Nations title decider by extending their 100 per cent records at the weekend.

    Here, we break down the good and bad points from the weekend’s action.

    IRELAND

    One good: Ireland’s attack was more innovative than against France two weeks ago and it’s clear the dry conditions allowed the team to play on the front foot. Quick ball and good options in terms of stretching the Italians’ line made Ireland look a threat every time.

    One bad: Ireland lost two key players to injuries and leaked 19 second half points from a position of dominance. Their inconsistency late in the game means their championship hopes won’t be clearer until later in the tournament.

    ITALY

    One good: Scored 19 points in the second half against Ireland – the most they’ve ever scored in Dublin. In try scorer Matteo Minnozzi, they possess one of the most exciting young players in the competition.

    One bad: Conor O’Shea’s men were never competitive for long spells against Ireland and they followed up last week’s 56-19 defeat against England by conceding eight tries to Schmidt’s men.

    ENGLAND

    One good: England’s ability to implement a quality game plan quicker was the decisive difference in this contest, capped off by two superb Jonny May tries in the early going.

    One bad: Although they are unbeaten after two games, the Red Rose have yet to light up the championship like some expected. Injuries to key men may be a reason, but a vast improvement is needed if they are to lift a third Six Nations title.

    WALES

    One good: Warren Gatland’s side looked sharp when using quick ball from the breakdown – but were simply not as accurate as they were against the Scots in round one. The two week break presents a chance to build on mistakes before they face Ireland in a crunch tie in Dublin.

    One bad: A game that got away from Wales. Being slow out of the blocks for the first 20 minutes – in which they shipped 12 points – essentially cost them the match. A clear disallowed try will add to their frustration when the squad sits down to review the match this week.

    FRANCE

    One good: It’s a shame that teams don’t get points for flair and tries – only results. France were impressive at the breakdown and showed style with two well-constructed tries.

    One bad: Despite leading at the break, Les Bleus couldn’t maintain the intensity, and tired out during the second half. Their defeat poses another question as to how the Top 14 doesn’t prepare French teams to play consistent rugby for a full 80 minutes – only 40 minutes at a decent level.

    SCOTLAND

    One good: The Scots showed character to close out the victory after being behind for so long in the contest. Greig Laidlaw will deservedly take the headlines by kicking 22 points on his return to Test rugby after fracturing his leg in October.

    One bad: Gregor Townsend’s men showed a way to win in the second half, but haven’t produced a consistent performance for 80 minutes since beating Australia in November. Defensive mistakes need to be tightened up if they are to win another game in this championship.

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