There have been some more great articles this week as the 2016 6 Nations moves into Round 2.
France’s performance in attack last weekend was characterised by an off-the-cuff approach, while Ireland once again showed how effective they can be in executing Joe Schmidt’s structured and precise gameplan; this afternoon’s first game will be an interesting contrast of styles, and Lynne Cantwell has written another excellent article for The42 on the contest between Ireland’s defence and France’s offloading game. Her point about the home side’s penchant for attempting to pass out of contact even on the back foot – and how this could be a way in which Ireland assert defensive dominance – is a particularly pertinent one, and there is some good technical insight into Jared Payne’s defensive movements. On the same site, Murray Kinsella broke down Ireland’s performance against Wales in a pair of pieces looking at their attack and defence. The Dead Ball Area’s latest video analysis on Rugbydump.com looks at England’s exit plays against Scotland last week, while Nick Bishop focuses on their kicking strategy in attack for Rugby World.
Lynne Cantwell, The42: Sexton shines, French offloads and a Perpignan test
Murray Kinsella, The42: Ireland’s defence holds up in brutal battle against Wales
Murray Kinsella, The42: Schmidt’s attack strikes but ruthless edge needed against France
The Dead Ball Area, Rugbydump.com: Analysis of England’s poor exit strategy tactics against Scotland
Nick Bishop, Rugby World: Three key areas from England 15-9 Scotland
The Chase Rugby 