Rugby Club Issue 89 | Page 6

Guinness Six Nations FOLLOW US ONLINE TWITTER.COM/RUGBYCLUBMAG Scotland Wales The World Cup was a failure for Scotland and they have continued to be annoyingly inconsistent in this tournament. Defeat to England, albeit in dreadful conditions followed a disappointing outing in Ireland, which coupled with difficulties off the field make it difficult to argue that this side has progressed under Gregor Townsend. A much-needed win against Italy was backed up by an impressive victory over the unbeaten French meaning a victory over Wales in their last fixture should provide them with some much needed momentum moving forwards. Wales put together a strong World Cup campaign and with a new coaching team in place it was always likely that there was going to be a period of transition. That has proven to be the case and regardless of the result in their final fixture against Scotland it will probably be this time next year at least before we can start to judge them. Wayne Pivac’s success with the Scarlets is certainly reason to be optimistic for Welsh fans but they will have to be patient as he looks to implement a more expansive style of play than his predecessor. It is a gamble to change a style that was relatively successful but based on the success that Pivac achieved with the Scarlets it is one that is well worth taking as Wales look to establish themselves as a serious challenge to the All Blacks and South Africa. 6 Issue 89