Let’s get one thing clear. Rugby is a sport played outside, part of the game is battling and adapting to the conditions. Firm harder ground encourages the backs to run with the ball, whereas muddy sloppy conditions are more suited for the forwards, that’s how rugby is, that show sport is.
To me I cannot understand why Wales are kicking up such a big fuss over the roof row. Warren Gatland’s comments to me just do not make sense. As far as I’m aware the Millennium Stadium is the only purpose built rugby stadium that has a retractable roof. Therefore Welsh players and any other rugby team in the world will have at some point in their career, had to play during a light drizzle to a torrential down pour.
In my opinion Andy Robinson’s decision to keep the roof open is the correct one, however stating that with the roof shut, Wales will have the advantage is a slightly radical view. The away side are perfectly within their right to request the roof to be open, it is perfectly legal within the rules.
But let’s face it, chances are Scotland and Andy Robinson couldn’t actually care less about whether the game is played with the roof open or closed, in my opinion this is all tactical and psychological to try and throw the Welsh off their routine.
So, rant over, lets crack on with more important matters, and how the teams line up. Firstly, by kick off at 2:00 on Saturday the world of rugby will welcome the 13th member of the exclusive ‘centurion club.’ Full back Chris Paterson known for his quick turn of pace and more importantly, the world most accurate goal kicker will earn his 100th cap in Cardiff.
Scotland conceded just 5 penalties against the French, making them the most disciplined team of the first round, if this becomes consistent, Stephen Jones’ kicking duties may become obsolete.
However Wales will be slightly confident, they have beaten the Scots six times in their last seven meets, loosing only in 2007. Scotland have only scored one try in their last three meets, while Wales have scored at least three tries in five of their last six games against Scotland.
Andy Robinson’s men will need to be wary of Alun-Wyn Jones who has been selected to play after a sin binning offence ‘cost Wales the game’ according to Gatland. After Jones feared for his international career, this selection will be the life line he needs and will be out to prove himself- don’t be surprised if he comes off the field as man of the match.
Dan Parks is welcomed back to the Scottish fold after a year of absence. Personally I have a soft spot for Parks, I do think he is a good player. He has played consistently well for Glasgow and is the Magners League top points scorer. In years gone by his international playing ability has been a roller coster ride to say the least. He will be looking for a good game, to enhance his selection prospects and move closer to the 50 cap milestone.
Euan Murray is brought back into the team after missing the French game due to his religious beliefs, this versatile prop is key for Scotland and will hopefully steady a shaky Scottish scrum the succumbed to the French forwards last Sunday.
This game should be a very entertaining encounter, both teams will look to get the ball rolling with a win, as a second loss will be doors for any championship or triple crown hopes.
