Mighty Mike is backing the draw
MIKE Phillips has made a surprise prediction ahead of Wales’ opening Six Nations clash with Scotland.
The former Lions scrum-half believes the match will end in a draw, a bold call given that in the 270 matches that have taken place since the Five Nations became six in 2000, just six have ended honours even.
In a pre-tournament assessment for the Sport360 website, Phillips forecast a win by 15 points for the Irish in Paris and for England to prevail against Italy in Rome by a margin of 30 points.
But he believes nothing will separate Wales and Scotland come the final whistle at the Principality Stadium, though he is all in favour of the heavy presence of Scarlets players in Warren Gatland’s starting line-up.
“It brings back memories of his first game in charge of Wales when he picked 13 Ospreys for a trip to Twickenham. Wales won that day, a lad called Phillips bagged a try!” he said.
“Having all those Scarlets in the side will mean there are a lot of players high on confidence, and who are playing well for their club and have that level of consistency of playing alongside each other week-in, week-out.
“Having played with the Scarlets on their mini-tour to South Africa in the Pro14, I got a really good insight to the players and how they are being coached. It’s a very well-run team with excellent coaches who allow the players to express themselves and throw the ball about a bit.
“Wales now need to give them that same licence.”
Phillips says Scotland have to back up all the plaudits they are winning for an improved style by delivering results.
He added: “As much as they have improved and they do now play a better brand of rugby, it’s time to actually deliver.
“It’s no good playing exciting rugby and getting one or two good results then going to Twickenham and getting battered as they did last year.”