Does Eddie "mind games" Jones' press conference tell us anything about the pressure the England squad are feeling about the prospect of equalling NZ's record of 18 consecutive wins, or, was he grumpy because his best player (and the best player in Northern hemisphere) was injured, "allegedly" by his dog, and may not be fit for the Scotland game.
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| Dog trips man |
Either way, Vern "stern" Cotter won't care, he is a Kiwi, used to Eddie's deflection tactics and spin. He knows where England are strong (front five, wings, bench) and where they are vulnerable, especially against Scotland (back row at breakdown, half backs, back three). Scotland will strive to start fast, keep the ball in play, create organised chaos and target Ford in the 10 channel. England will want as many scrums and lineouts as possible, and will aim to convert pressure into points, so keeping scoreboard ticking over and making Scotland chase the game. Even if Scotland are in the game after 60 mins, Eddie will empty the bench, bring on his finishers and grind out another close victory.
Hopefully Ireland can win in the Principality Stadium on Friday night, so even if England do beat Scotland on Saturday, the Six Nations will go all the way to the final weekend, and everyone can enjoy the Dublin finale. A fitting end to a great tournament.
My tip is Ireland by 7, England by 10, France by 17 ... enjoy!
