Scotland – England

In a predictably packed Murrayfield and at high intensity, Scotland produced one of their most complete performances of recent seasons. Beaten on the opening weekend in Italy, Gregor Townsend’s men responded with authority, leaning on a structured attacking organisation and remarkable efficiency in the scoring zones.

Right from the off, in fact, the Scots imposed their tempo through fluid attacking play, expertly conducted by Finn Russell. The Scotland fly-half alternated territorial kicking with attacking initiative, keeping the England defence under constant pressure. Two tries inside the opening quarter of an hour allowed the hosts to move quickly clear.

England tried to respond in spells, notably through their kicking game and their set-piece, but a lack of attacking continuity and several technical errors held their ambitions back. Despite a second-half reaction, England never really managed to turn the momentum around. Or even to find their rhythm.

Solid in defence and disciplined in the key moments, the Scots held on to their lead until the final whistle. This 31-20 win confirms their ability to compete with the best nations in the tournament and gives their campaign fresh life. England’s Grand Slam dream, on the other hand, is over…

Our view: France are now the only side still in the hunt for the Grand Slam.

Ireland win, but offer no reassurance

At the Aviva Stadium, Ireland won 20-13 against a disciplined, well-organised Italy side that ran the game for long spells. Without producing anything spectacular, far from it, the Irish did control the key moments to secure their first win of this edition. But how laboured it was…

The match was built on a fierce territorial battle, with both sides favouring the kicking game and defensive pressure. Ireland weathered the storm before gradually gaining the upper hand thanks to the quality of their set-piece and their ability to string phases together in opposition territory.

The Italians, well organised defensively, put up constant resistance, limiting clear-cut opportunities and staying in touch on the scoreboard until the final quarter of an hour. Their discipline and their commitment in the collision areas allowed them to contain a large part of Ireland’s initiatives.

The difference came from Ireland’s control during the quieter spells. More accurate in the territorial game and more clinical in converting their chances, Ireland preserved their advantage until the final whistle.

Our view: Italy let slip a famous win that was there for the taking.