RUGBY!! 6 NATIONS FORECASTS

Tonight marks the half-way point in the 6 Nations championship, and here are a few thoughts...

Italy v Scotland - The wooden spoon decider
Scotland are number 9 in the world rankings, and have looked pretty feeble so far. Italy are number 10 in the rankings and have had good moments but again failed to really impress. Purely on recent form, and given "home advantage" Italy look the better bet, but when it comes down to it I think Scotlands experience will tell, plus the scots will probably have as many fans as the Italians, if not more, negating the home advantage.
The heart is praying for an Italian win, the head says Scotland by 5 to 10.

England v Ireland
Fortress Twickenham. 22 games unbeaten at home over 5 years. On paper England should walk it, but Ireland are unpredictable, and Robinson is facing a truly world class centre in Brian O'Driscoll for the first time. I think England will win, but not by as much as the Twickenham faithful would like or expect. England by 10 to 15.

Wales v France
The supposedly resurgent Welsh will be given a bit of a going over I think. Ireland showed that the welsh pack is not that strong, and France's pack are a step-up again. Combine that with backs who can create something from nothing in the blink of an eye and I think the welsh will be staring down the barrel of a thumping.
France by 15 to 20 if there's rain, and 20 to 25 if it's dry.