Matchdays done properly… and we are only just getting started
What a weekend at the Marine Travel Ground!
Another roaring success for the Clubhouse and SCRUM Kitchen, and it all began in style with our Valentine’s pre match lunch. Good food, great company and, thanks to Tony Allan and the Singing Waiters, a musical finale that had the whole room on its feet. There were songs, there were smiles, and there may even have been a few unexpected high notes from the tables.
If you were there, you will know. If you were not, you missed a cracker.
And that set the tone for a brilliant weekend of Six Nations rugby on the big screens.
Round Two reflections
Ireland showed real heart to bounce back from their opening loss to France, edging past a spirited Italian side. With James Lowe back in the starting line up, there was a steadier feel to the Irish back line and more physical edge in midfield. Sam Prendergast struggled early on, but once Jack Crowley entered the fray the Irish looked far more organised and composed.
There are still questions around Ireland’s scrum and their long term rebuild, but it was a step forward.
Italy, meanwhile, continue to grow. Their scrum, powered by Simone Ferrari and Danilo Fischetti, was again dominant and Paulo Garbisi looked increasingly assured at ten. On another day, and without a controversial TMO call, they might have had two wins from two. They head into Sunday against France with belief.
At Murrayfield, Scotland reminded everyone exactly what they can do. Finn Russell pulled the strings beautifully and the Scottish backs were electric. More importantly, they dismantled England’s kicking game, squeezing the life out of a strategy that has served England well for over a year.
England’s Grand Slam hopes are over, but it was not quite the disaster some will claim. A fumble here, a drop goal decision there, and the margin might have told a different story. Still, Scotland were worthy winners and deserved the Calcutta Cup celebrations.
Over in Cardiff, France were simply irresistible. Even in a much improved Welsh performance, Les Bleus ripped through with offloads, pace and athleticism that make them tournament favourites. Wales showed better discipline and a stronger scrum, but France were electric.
Round Two had everything. Drama. Power. Controversy. Flair.
And it all tasted better with a burger in hand.
Six Nations Week Three is almost here
Now we build again.
Two games on Saturday. One on Sunday. All live at the clubhouse.
England v Ireland – Saturday 21 February, 2.10pm
After Scotland exposed England’s kicking game and Ireland continue to search for their best ten, this one feels finely balanced. Will England respond with control and composure, or will Ireland find the cohesion they lacked in spells last week?
Wales v Scotland – Saturday 21 February, 4.40pm
Scotland arrive brimming with confidence after Murrayfield magic. Wales showed genuine improvement against France. Expect passion. Expect noise. Expect fireworks.
France v Italy – Sunday 22 February, 3.10pm
France are favourites, but Italy’s scrum and Garbisi’s growing confidence could make this far more uncomfortable than many expect. If the Azzurri bring the same physicality, this might just be the test France did not see coming.
Clear the decks
Six Nations Week Three means one thing. Make plans now.
All games screened live on the clubhouse screens.
All Six Nations burgers available.
Six Nations themed drinks at the bar.
Research your Fantasy picks. Decide which nation suits your taste buds best. Text the group chat. Bring the family. Bring your mates.
One Clubhouse. All the games. One Club.
We know how to do matchdays properly. And we know you love rugby.
Valentine’s Day may have passed, but we are still a match made in rugby heaven.
See you at the Clubhouse.
