SIX NATIONS PREDICTIONS WEEK 5

Well, here we go, final weekend of the 2019 Six Nations, and, whilst only the Welsh can win the Slam, three teams can win the title.

Italy v France ko 1230hrs

Whilst everyone sensible would love the Italians to turnover their European counterparts at home, completing a disastrous season for the French, but it is unlikely, and should be another wooden spoon for Conor O'Shea's team.

Wales v Ireland ko 1445hrs

A titanic "Kiwi" tussle awaits in both Schmidt's and Gatland's final Six Nations games, with Warren striving to be the first coach to win three Grand Slams. Ireland call up Tadhg Beirne to replace Henderson in the 2nd row, and also bring in Sean O'Brien and Rob Kearney (not bad subs) for Van der Flier and Larmour respectively. Wales remain unchanged from the Scotland game, meaning Liam Williams has miraculously recovered from his shoulder injury. The annual shenanigans over the stadium roof is in full flow, with Wales wanting it closed (claiming poor weather) and poker faced Ireland playing a waiting game, but will surely want it open. This game is why we love rugby...

It could happen....

The OATH reporting team are 80% predicting an Irish win, most by one score, with only the Welsh contingent following their heart. I was predicting a narrow Irish victory as think they are coming into form at just the right moment, but as England found out a few years ago, the final game of the tournament in Cardiff is a unique atmosphere, and Gatland seems to be able to channel the ridiculous level of emotion positively into his players and their performance.

Wales by one score ... heaven help us all

England v Scotland ko 1700hrs

If my Wales prediction comes good, then England will be playing for pride, having already secured 2nd place, which will help Scotland, as game will probably be less structured. If Ireland triumph, then England will know any win will see them become champions, a remarkable turnaround after 5th place last season. Eddie Jones brings in Jack Nowell in place of Cokanasiga on the wing, while there are also recalls for prop Ben Moon, centre Henry Slade and flanker Mark Wilson. Mario Itoje and Dan Robson miss out because of injury. 

Hamish Watson needs to win every ruck

Scotland will be delighted that Hamish Watson is fit enough to replace the injured Jamie Ritchie, with Sam Skinner of Exter also returning to the back row. Lock Ben Toolis is in for Jonny Gray in second row, with Sean Maitland and Byron McGuigan replacing injured duo Blair Kinghorn and Tommy Seymour respectively in the back three. Aussie Sam Johnston is included at centre at expense of Pete Horne. The Scots have not won at Twickers since 1983, although they did draw a game, and certainly should have won in 1999 (when they won the last Five Nations), but the odds are heavily against them, despite winning last season's fixture. 

The OATH reporting fraternity, unsurprisingly have gone with a bonus point win for England, except for Danny McGuinnes of Dublin who (clearly loves me so much it has affected his judgement) reckons the Scots will turn them over and hand the Irish the title. Whatever the outcome, enjoy one of the greatest days in sport, and indulge in a Guinness or two in advance of St Patrick's Day.

England by 12 points.