Nick Wright previews this weekend's clash between York City Knights and Hull FC
James Tompkinson reviews an excellent pre-season victory for the York City Knights against Yorkshire rivals Leeds Rhinos
James Tompkinson previews York City Knights' upcoming clash with Leeds Rhinos
Anthony Quinn previews Saturday's Four Nations match between England and Australia
The weekend kicks off on Saturday at 14:30, with Italy and Wales fighting it out at Stadio Flaminio. Last match Italy got the game off to a good start before being trounced by England, and they played a pretty strong game the week before against Ireland. Because of this I can see Italy being able to get a few points on the board this weekend. But after Wales’ performance two weeks ago, thrashing Scotland 24 – 6, I can see them being on top form again this week. I predict a strong game with a lot of tries from Wales and a few sneaky points from Italy. Keep an eye on Bergamasco for Italy this weekend, as one of the strongest players on the team, he always provides some action. Also, look out for Shane Williams on the wing for Wales, he should be running in a few tries this weekend.
Prediction – Wales win
Maybe the biggest match of this weekend starts at 17:00 on Saturday, with England taking on France. This game could determine who wins the Six Nations this year, and possibly the Grand Slam, with both teams tied at the top with two wins apiece. Last week France took on Ireland, who put up quite a fight and only ended up losing by three points, if England can show the same amount of stamina and strength then they might just be in with a chance this week. We’ve seen the dream team of Flood and Youngs working very well together so for England, and if this continues there is a strong chance they could be the deciding factor. England need to really concentrate and keep their heads in the game this week, any silly errors will count against them massively. England need this win to give them the confidence to see the Six Nations through this year, it might help that they are at the home ground which will give them the boost they need to dominate France.
Prediction – England win (I hope)
The final game of the weekend is on Sunday at 15:00. We will see Scotland defending their home turf of Murrayfield against an Ireland who have failed to impress thus far. Scotland will be determined to pick themselves up from the embarrassing loss against Wales in their last match, but I doubt this match will be very interesting. I can see Ireland absolutely dominating Scotland, but I can also imagine Scotland will put up a big fight. I can’t see the Scottish fans being too happy about seeing Wales walk over their team in the last match, so I imagine the atmosphere at Murrayfield this week will be electric. The Scottish fans want a win this week; lets see if the team comply.
Prediction – Ireland win
Two predictions right so far this week. Bloody brilliant match between England and France, a bit of a shame more tries weren't scored, but still we got the result we wanted. Now for the Ireland, Scotland game tomorrow. I have my fingers crossed that Scotland will somehow pull a win out of the bag, but we'll have to wait and see!
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