Capitalising on Scotland’s weak set-pieces could be the key

RECENT events ensure Scotland’s visit to Lansdowne Road Saturday will be greeted by caution and respect from all in the Irish squad.

The fact that our Celtic cousins will provide the last opposition for a championship game (Wanderers permitting) in rugby headquarters also offers a sense of nostalgia for anyone associated with the code in this country.

The penultimate round of this year’s Six Nations championship can best be described as “movement day.” With the four teams locked together on four points in direct opposition, this weekend provides the opportunity for two of those to emerge from the pack. The Dublin game and the France-England clash in Paris are pivotal.