Gerry Thornley’s Selections
Top Player: Our attention is drawn to Bundee Aki for his impressive performances. His World Cup level of play was unstinting and he proved to be the main source of reliability for Ireland. His intricate footwork, dynamism, and relentless exertion post-impact kept the attack focused. He continuously collects winners’ medals and his popularity amongst fans is underscored by their cheers when his name echoes before a game.
Top Try: Given Antoine Dupont’s absence, Nolann le Garrec, France’s dazzling young scrum-half, got his long-awaited opportunity to revitalise Les Bleus in the recent matches. His tried-and-tested tournament pass against Wales was followed up by scoring the best try against England. The French team sprang to action after a lineout, with Gael Fickou helping release Leo Barre, and le Garrec completed it with a traditional scrum-half’s companion run. This try was quintessentially French from a consummate French player, ‘9’.
Top Match: The showdown between the newly emerged ‘Big Two’, Ireland and France, was dramatic and surely noteworthy, possibly because of the unique ambience, the Friday night, the Stadium, La Marseillaise and the accompanying excitement of a perhaps too early title decider. All this and the fear of defeat made the game all the more exhilarating. Ireland’s feats, in particular Jack Crowley’s proficient and mentally robust exhibition, exceeded expectations. In the conclusion, they reclaimed their Top Two positions. Without a doubt, no one’s picking an Irish loss!
Gordon D’Arcy’s Selections
Top Player: We can’t overstate Ben Earl’s prominence in this year’s Six Nations. Previously recognised for his spirited celebrations, the English flanker has found an outstanding form that reveals his potential as a trophy-winning player.
Top Try: Ireland’s back-to-back championships and our 15th title in the Six Nations were invigorating. Perhaps not the most stylish try ever, Andrew Porter’s at 64 minutes proved to be of vital importance. Its significance in the history of rugby is almost unparalleled.
In the Six Nations’ last match, England and France rebounded from an early slump, giving an extraordinary game. The match was a delight, providing spectacular moments till the end, punctuated by the decisive penalty that shattered the hopes of England, yet added to their proud sporting moments. Matt Williams applauds the running form and fierce intensity of Bundee Aki, who has taken his superb performance from the 2023 Rugby World Cup to this year’s Six Nations Championship. His exceptional gameplay as inside centre made him a key player for Ireland’s attacking strategies.
Further, the sport has witnessed an exciting comeback of backline attacks from scrums. Although the credit for the first try against England at Murrayfield goes to Duhan Van der Merwe, the exquisite tactical scheme of the coaches and the Scottish centres deserve acknowledgment for their flawless performance that led to uncertainty in the English defence.
Then, the exceptional encounter at Twickenham involving Ireland serves as a classic highlight. Both teams scored stunning tries while battling injuries, adding a layer of intrigue. Despite Ireland’s great potential, the match ended in England’s redemption as Marcus Smith notched a remarkable drop goal.
John O’Sullivan heaped praises on Bundee Aki, who stood out in Ireland’s critical matches en route to the Six Nations Championship triumph. His mention also goes to England’s Ben Earl, Italy’s Tommaso Menoncello, and Duhan van der Merwe for their commendable performances.
In the match against France in Marseille, Jamison Gibson Park showcased his decision-making prowess. He, along with Bundee Aki, was one of Ireland’s dominant players, with Robbie Henshaw assisting Aki to find a gap, who then handed over a score-pass to Gibson-Park.
Recap of thrilling rugby face-offs: The game between France and England in Lyon was an absolute feast for the spectators. A concoction of exhilarating moments, impressive offensive strategies, and a match buzzing with intensity till the last minute, had audiences glued. A key highlight was French outhalf, Thomas Ramos’ fearless game-winning kick, midway in the match, elevating entertainment levels.
Performer of the Match: England’s number eight, Ben Earls, showcased one of his most powerful performances, his dominant style and stellar co-ordination with other backline members made him nearly unbeatable at close range. His rapid pace and immense strength earned him the title of ‘Man of the Match’ against Ireland, with 19 possessions to his credit.
Top Scoring Move: The standout play was the second try by Duhan van der Merwe during the England-Murrayfield match. An error by George Furbank was quickly seized by Huw Jones who passed it to the winger who sped off on a 60-yard run, earning them valuable points.
Another Game Jam: England’s neck and neck face-off with Ireland was another spectacle to behold. The game’s outcome was uncertain till the end, filled with rapid-paced attacks and thrilling scores, had the audience at the edge of their seats.
Champion on Field: In light of England’s rocky start, Bundee Aki emerged as a powerful force for Ireland and was particularly impressive against Ireland. His dynamic style of play single-handedly injected the necessary punch to the team’s wavering offensive strategy.
Top Try: A standout scoring attempt was Jame Lowe’s against England. The calm and composed way Jack Crowley deftly handled his pass to outwit the rival defence was highly reassuring, hinting at his ability to tackle challenging systems. Lowe’s final touch was simply flawless.
Game You Mustn’t Miss: France vs England match narrowly triumphed the Ireland-England game. The nail-biting final minutes had Thomas Ramos kicking a game-winning shot at the 80th minute, right from the halfway line, adding an unexpected twist to the high-stakes game.