Scotland v Ireland – Key Battle: Full Back
Stuart Hogg v Hugo Keenan
Stuart Hogg is set to make his 100th test cap for Scotland, when Ireland make the trip to Murrayfield this Sunday.
The fullback has been an integral part of the Scottish back-line since his arrival in 2012, and has achieved the try-scoring record for his country, with 27 and counting. His testing runs will challenge the green wall of the Irish defence, with opposite man Hugo Keenan being the last point of call to bring down a break into the back-field. Scotland’s desire is the end the Grand Slam hopes for Ireland, with Hogg a key player in this plan.
Keenan has been outstanding throughout the 2023 Guinness Six Nations, beginning his campaign with a ‘Player of the Match’ performance against Wales. Scoring important tries throughout the competition, Keenan’s pick so far was in the all-important second round match against France. With an explosive first step, and the fearlessness to take a defender on head-first, Keenan is unpredictable to defend against, with Scotland players weary of his evasive runs and physical prowess in contact.
As good as both full-backs are in attack, their defensive talents will be crucial for their sides victory. Starting with the arial battle, both Hogg and Keenan will expect to receive high balls into the back-field, if the match breaks down into a kicking contest. But also in the tackle, as Scotland and Ireland have plentiful ball carriers, who are capable of brushing past the last defender on their way through to the try-line. The likes of Duhan van der Merwe and James Lowe are threats from out wide, and when cutting in-field. Both full-backs should expect a tough day at the office defensively this Sunday.