The Six Nations came to a close at the weekend, with a number of Bath Rugby players finishing the championships with a flourish.
Ireland v England
After securing the RBS 6 Nations title against Scotland at Twickenham in round four, England had their sights set on winning the Grand Slam in Dublin. However, Eddie Jones’ side came up against an inspired Ireland team, who won 13-9 in a closely-fought encounter at the Aviva Stadium.
Bath Rugby’s George Ford, Jonathan Joseph and Anthony Watson all started for England and will head back to domestic action full of confidence after their trophy-winning campaign.
France v Wales
With the title already wrapped up, second place was up for grabs with France and Wales both looking to climb up the table. The game didn’t disappoint, as the home team scored deep into injury time to claim a dramatic 20-18 victory.
Wales led by five points after 80 minutes, but subsequently spent the next 20 minutes camped on their own try line. Despite the best efforts of Bath’s Taulupe Faletau, Luke Charteris and the Welsh defence, France back rower Damien Chouly crossed from close range to give the home side the points.
Ireland U20 v England U20
England U20s secured their first Grand Slam title in six years with a 14-10 triumph over Ireland.
Led by Bath Rugby’s Zach Mercer, England held off a second half fightback from the home side to the delight of the back rower.
Mercer said: “We showed a huge amount of belief in the way we performed. We were resilient and Ireland put us under pressure but I knew we would pull through because this team has that confidence. We have put in a lot of hard work.
“It hasn't quite kicked in that we have won the Grand Slam but I am over the moon."
France Women v Wales Women
Wales ended their Six Nations campaign with a 39-19 defeat against France in Brive. Bath’s Caryl Thomas lined up in the front row and along with her teammates produced a spirited display at Stade Amedee Domenech to finish fifth in the final table.
