This is the round that really matters, this is when the top two seeds in each group will face off to decide who tops the group. Here are my predictions.
First here is a link to my review of round 2.
How did your predictions go in the last round?
6 from 6, another perfect round but so it was for many people.
Argentina U20 v Scotland U20
There is a common theme this week, all the sides have either lost or won both of their games. Argentina might have lost four on the bounce now but there have been some spirited performances in those games. It took late penalty goals in the last two games for them to be overcome. Where as Scotland went down to a big defeat in their first game, so I’m predicting a win by a couple of scores for the South Americans.
Argentina U20 by 10
England U20 v France U20
This will be the 4th game between 6 Nations teams and so far only 1 out of 3 have had the same result. These games have short turnarounds so injuries and fitness could be as important as form. I know England have lost their scrum half but I’m backing them to repeat their 6 Nations win as they have shown better form so far.
England U20 by 5
Wales U20 v Japan U20
Wales should get a comfortable win in this game. Japan have shipped over 100 points in the competition so far and are heading into the bottom group for the playoffs.
Wales U20 by 30
Samoa U20 v Italy U20
This should be a good game between the islanders and the host nation. I think Samoa will come out on top and get themselves into the middle playoff group. Once there they could cause an upset.
Samoa U20 by 5
South Africa U20 v Australia U20
This is the tie of the round, both teams have picked up TBP wins in the first two rounds. It can be hard to compare sides as both teams have done what’s been needed. South Africa’s defence has been the tighter and so I’m backing them to take a tight contest. However I do think Australia will do enough to get into the top playoff group.
South Africa U20 by 7
New Zealand U20 v Ireland U20
Ireland have picked up two wins but they have been both been tight affairs. New Zealand cruised the first game but were given a real fight as they rested players in the second. That will be a wake up call and I see them cementing the top seeding with a big win over Ireland.
New Zealand U20 by 20 points
