Italy’s improvement since entering the 6 Nations pays dividends
RWC 2007 Predictions 4 - Pool C
There’s no arguing that New Zealand will do anything but crush every team in their Pool as warm-ups for their all-but-certain Quarter Final against Australia. Once we get past this though, there is an interesting match-up in Pool C: Italy vs. Scotland on Sep. 29th. Italy has made HUGE improvements in their rugby program since joining the 5 Nations in 2000 (to create the Six Nations Championship). Italy finished 4th above both Wales and Scotland in the 2007 Six Nations campaign, and turmoil in the SRU since then could spell trouble and a pool-round exit for the Scots.
(On Sep 17th, 2007 at 10:02 am)
Ummm…..did you see the score between Italy and Romania? While the Scots are having some troubles, they look alot better than Italy. I don’t see this one being close. Italy is a few years away from being a contender.
(On Sep 17th, 2007 at 10:56 am)
Ya, ITA they looked a little weak against Romania, but the also scored 14 points against New Zealand, which shows their offensive potential. And remember, they play SCO on a regular basis.
The score line for NWZ v SCO on Sep 23 will be very informative. I still say SCO v. ITA will be tight and determine who goes on to the quarter finals.