Slams

Had a nice day on Saturday watching three matches of rugby. The fact that I've given up beer for lent dampened things somewhat but not really that muxh. Was in Bangor, North Wales for my brother-in-law's stags do and the Welsh grand-slam was top of the menu.

Italy v Scotland intrigued, it's great to see Italy doing well. They are slowly maturing and are becoming a real asset to the tournament. In the coming years you can see them challenging for the championship.



England came next, a few muted cheers from the locals greeted the Irish probing but England were impressive, there is no way to get round it. Everything clicked. Ireland were woeful, a revitalised England got quick ball from backs to forwards, it all flowed. Virtuouso performances from Cipriani and awesome tackling by Noon in particular shone. Where did performances like that and the one in Paris come from when you look at the abject capitulation against Wales and Scotland? Would the real England please stand up!





And so onto Wales, I never really thought it was in doubt...France effectively started the game 25 points down. The Welsh started so well and the French didn't really react. The Welsh's none-commiting rucking meant there was never any space for the French to get going. The locals all lauded the grand slam and well done to them...you just wonder what would have happened if England hadn't have had a mad 40 minutes in the opening game. Still what-ifs don't cut it. Hats off to the champions.