Six Nations: England can edge title showdown in Ireland

Stuart Lancaster's side can go a long way towards the title with a win in Ireland

Simon Mail previews the second weekend of the Six Nations and tips England to clinch a crucial victory at title rivals Ireland. 

The Six Nations got off to a terrific opening weekend with entertaining wins for Ireland and England while Italy pulled off a huge upset against France. The pick of the second round of matches sees England travel to Ireland while Scotland host Italy and France host Wales.

Scotland v Italy

It was a tough first match for interim coach Scott Johnson as Scotland were beaten at Twickenham but even in defeat there were some encouraging signs. A couple of tries indicated that their attacking game has plenty of potential and they will be looking to build on this at Murrayfield. 

The Italians will arrive in Scotland full of confidence after their shock win over the French. Italy are no longer the pushovers they once were and have targeted two victories in this year's competition. If they can stun the Scots then it will all but ensure they avoid the wooden spoon. But Italy have based their limited success in the competition on their home form and have historically struggled on the road.

Scotland suffered defeat in Italy last season (and eventually finished rock bottom of the table), but have won the last two home games against them. It seems likely that this will be a very tight encounter and home advantage could prove the difference in helping Scotland to a narrow win.

Recommended bet: Back Scotland to win by less than 12.5 points at 2.3411/8

France v Wales 

The pressure will be on France to deliver after their hugely disappointing defeat in Italy. Philippe Saint-Andre's side were heavily fancied to mount a strong challenge for the title but this was effectively shattered after the opening weekend. But, as poor as France were on Sunday, we know that they are capable of brilliance and can demolish a team when they're in the mood. 

Wales also have their own problems to solve after suffering their eighth consecutive defeat in last weekend's loss to Ireland. The Welsh only started playing after the match was long gone but at least their three tries and response offered some sort of encouragement. It's a bit of a mystery why things have gone so wrong for last year's Grand Slam champions but they're clearly missing their absent coach Warren Gatland. 

France have certainly had the better of their recent head to head record with ten victories over Wales in the last 13 meetings. With this sort of history and home advantage, it is hard to see Wales getting anything from this clash. France will be desperate to redeem themselves and I would expect a strong response after their limp showing in Italy.

Recommended bet: Half Time/Full Time France/France at 1.684/6

Ireland v England

This is undoubtedly the match of the weekend and this showdown could go a long way to deciding the fate of this year's title. Ireland looked very impressive, especially in the first half, during their win in Wales. Simon Zebo caught the eye with some flashy footwork and his try while Declan Kidney's side looked much improved from last season. Ireland also realise the opportunity they have with home games against England and France giving them a great chance to finish first.

England also looked in decent form as they scored four tries in a comfortable win over Scotland. The feelgood factor from their recent win over New Zealand seemed to carry over and Stuart Lancaster's side have got their sights set on first place after finishing second a year ago. This looks to be the key game for England because if they can win in Ireland then the title could well be within their grasp. 

The last two meetings have both been won by England but Ireland have won seven of the last 12 games. I would expect this to be a gripping contest which should be decided by just a few points. Ireland have the home crowd behind them but England shouldn't have any fear having won in France last season. England's firepower in the backs, with Manu Tuilagi available again, could provide the edge and this might be enough to carry them to a decisive win in Dublin.

Recommended bet: Back England to win at 2.0621/20

Follow Simon's tips on Twitter @watfordtipster