The third round of the 2024 Six Nations Championship delivered some thrilling matches and unforgettable moments in rugby history. From Ireland's continued dominance to a dramatic draw in Lille, here's how the teams fared in this crucial stage of the tournament.
Ireland vs Wales
Ireland's quest to defend their Grand Slam title remained on track with a comfortable win over Wales in Dublin. The men in green flexed a 31-7 win—a testament to their continued dominance of European rugby. This victory solidified Ireland's position at the top of the leaderboard, making them the only team to remain undefeated in the competition—one step closer to that elusive back-to-back Grand Slam.
England vs Scotland
The historic rivalry between England and Scotland was reignited at Murrayfield, where Scotland emerged victorious once again with a score of 30-21. Duhan van der Merwe was the main talking point, securing a hat-trick that not only won Scotland the game but also kept the Calcutta Cup in Scottish hands. This victory was a significant moment for Scotland, matching a four-game winning streak against England that was last achieved in 1970-1973.
Italy vs France
Italy and France battled it out in Lille, with the match ending in a dramatic 13-13 draw. Italy was on the brink of a stunning shock victory over France, but missed out in agonising fashion, hitting the post with the final kick of the game. This result is another reminder of Italy's growing strength and the inevitability of claiming a scalp.
Table Roundup
Following the third round, the Six Nations table saw Ireland keeping the top spot, with Scotland usurping England for second place. They’re then followed by France, Wales, and Italy. Ireland's unbeaten streak puts them in a favourable position to clinch the Grand Slam title, while the draw between Italy and France showcased the unpredictability of the tournament.
Conclusion
The third round of the 2024 Six Nations Championship was a showcase of rugby at its best, with teams giving their all on the field. Ireland's relentless march towards another Grand Slam, Scotland's resurgence, and Italy's near upset over France highlighted the competitive spirit and skill level within the tournament. As the championship progresses to the fourth round, the anticipation and excitement only grows, with fans eagerly waiting to see how the next rounds will unfold and which team will ultimately rise to the top.
