6 Nations Preview: Overrated England to Disappoint

By
at Internationaled.org

Published: February 1, 2013

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After the 2013 Six Nations, we will most likely learn two things—Wales aren’t nearly as bad as they looked in the Autumn internationals and England aren’t nearly as good. France look to be in great shape and are likely winners, while a big question mark hangs over 2009 champions Ireland. Italy may show signs of progress.

 

England

Pundits, albeit mainly in the English media, seem to think this current English team compares favourably to their all-conquering 2003 predecessors. However, one victory against a tired and depleted All Blacks at the end of a long tour and season doesn’t make them world beaters.

Undoubtedly, Stuart Lancaster has worked wonders with a squad that just over 15 months ago was an embarrassment to the proud tradition of English rugby. In New Zealand during the 2011 World Cup, the English team were more interested in dwarf throwing contests than the actual World Cup. This led to much soul searching in the RFU and the appointment of Stuart Lancaster as head coach looks inspired.

This resurgence has led to absurd expectations, with most rugby commentators anointing a still callow England as Grand Slam champions-in-waiting. 

Key player: Owen Farrell —terrible in Limerick against Munster, sublime against Racing Metro when he kicked an incredible 32 points.  

Key match: Ireland in Dublin      

Prediction: Third. Will have comfortable victories over Scotland, Italy and Wales and may squeak it against France, but likely to fall short against Ireland in Dublin.

 

Ireland

This year’s Six Nations will tell us a lot about where Ireland and England are. England travel to Dublin in 2013 and have a dismal record against the Irish over the last 10 years, last year notwithstanding when the Irish scrum crumbled in Twickenham.

It is diffic...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Rugby Union

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