THREE KEY CLASHES | WITH KYRAN BRACKEN
TOBY FLOOD vs TOBY FLOOD
The most crucial battle of the match and Scotland are making a big mistake by picking Jackson at fly-half ahead of the more experienced Dan Parks. Jackson is talented and I’m sure he’ll go on to play many times but Scotland looked dangerous when Parks came on against Ireland. The youngster will have to be at his very best to outshine Flood who is on top of the world right now.
TOM PALMER vs RICHIE GRAY
If you were picking a Lions side right now these two second-rows would be the leading candidates. Gray has been a real find for Scotland and one of the players of the tournament. He is a great ball carrier and tackler – he’s been stopping tries singled-handed – but Palmer has also stood out. The two sides are not evenly matched, so it’s vital for Scotland that Gray wins this duel.
BEN FODEN vs CHRIS PATERSON
Scotland aren’t coming thinking they’ve got the best back three, they’re coming to spoil the party. Paterson is a great kicker and gives them poise but isn’t going to break tackles and score tries, so I don’t see him being the party pooper. Foden has been a revelation in the last 12 months. England’s full-back is so exciting, fast coming into the line and the reason I expect England to win handsomely.
VERDICT:
England’s back three is far too strong and will inspire them to a 15-point win
Kyran Bracken was speaking courtesy of GamePlan Solutions: Managing high profile and popular sport stars; Speakers, Leaders, Motivators, Ambassadors www.gameplansolutions.co.uk