Allez Blues, in 6N Wins

Allez Blues!
By Andrew Collins
February 12 2007

It was a good weekend for the 6 Nations Blues as France and Scotland won, with Italy frustratng England at Twickenham.

In the opening match of the 2nd round, England, who were celebrating a victorious return for Jonny Wilkinson in last weeks match with Scotland, were given a sobering experience by the travelling Italians.

The 82,000+ England fans were left silent as Italy refused to buckle in a 20-7 loss, scoring the same amount of tries.

Meanwhile in the match of the tourament thus far, France just ousted Ireland in the final moments with a stunning try after conceding a late penalty which looked to have sealed the match for the 6 Nations favourates.

But the bad news came for Wales, in a lifeless and limp loss to the Scots, 21-9, meaning we are yet to a try in this campaign, and Steven Jones is still seeking his first win, and performance, since being given the captincy.

There were very, very few positives for Wales, though Mark Jones' return was something to cheer. The Scarlet showed up in defence very well, while Jamie Robinson also showed good skills in defence and attack.

Upfront, martyn Williams and Alix Popham stole the few plaudits, but anyone else in red will've been very upset with their personal display.

Questions must be asked now, and changes must be made. Hook at 12 is not working, and Steven Jones is underperforming, so the simple answer is play the immensely talented Osprey at 10, and drop Jones. It's not rocket science. Nick Robinson has been dropped from the Welsh squad with performances better than Jones' last few, and Gareth jenkins must now look at installing Hook as the new playmaker.

In the centre, many will argue a Henson and Shanklin combo must come in, but for me, Robinson has impressed, and should keep his 13 shirt with Shanklin inside him.

Mark Jones did well on Saturday, though Czekaj looked a million-miles out of his depth, and everyone in wales is praying on the fitness of Shane Williams for the trip to France.

Peel may find his position under threat too, with Phillips' barnstorming match against the Blues las year, and his own inconsistancy since Jenkins has taken over.

Up front, the whole front row must go, to be replaced by Geth and Horseman at prop, and Rees at 2.

At lock, Sidoli was poor, and the partnership of Gough and Alun Wynn-Jones must be reissued.

But then that just one guys opinion...

What do you think?