France – Ireland
France put on a real demonstration against Ireland, relying on an ironclad defense and a consistently powerful scrum. During the first quarter of an hour, they accepted to endure the stereotypical and sterile play of the Irish to better catch them on the counterattack. Then, they took matters into their own hands; the breakthrough came from Imanol Harinordoquy’s relaunch following an impeccable reception.
Demonstrating their ability to take control of the game, multiplying phases with talent and precision, the proposed alternation had the effect of completely unsettling the overwhelmed and unresponsive Irish. Good management of our dominant phases allowed us to take a comfortable lead in the score, ensuring an end to the match without the slightest suspense.
We felt great serenity within the French XV, reflecting great confidence in the game system established by the staff. However, this type of performance will need to be repeated in fifteen days against the Welsh because we all know our team suffers from chronic inconsistency.
Wales – Scotland
A superb match where the Scots nearly surprised the Welsh, who were totally absent during the first fifty minutes of this encounter. Both teams alternately played a spectacular game, scoring magnificent tries and giving us an exceptional finale.
