ROUND 3 Saturday 22nd February 2025
As rugby enthusiasts around the world gear up for another thrilling weekend of Six Nations action, New York City’s own rugby community is buzzing with excitement. The 2025 tournament has already delivered its share of surprises, and Round 3 promises to be no different. With two crucial matches on the horizon, let’s dive into what promises to be a pivotal moment in this year’s championship.
Guinness Six Nations Round 3
Wales vs Ireland
Doors Open at 8:45 am EST
England vs Scotland
Doors Open at 11:15 am EST
The Winslow 243 East 14th Street New York, NY 10003
Wales welcomes Ireland to the Principality Stadium in Cardiff on Saturday, February 22, 2025, for the third round of the 2025 Six Nations Championship. Despite Wales’ home advantage, Ireland’s recent dominant performances make this a highly anticipated clash that could go either way.
Later that day, England faces Scotland at the Allianz Stadium, Twickenham, in the latest installment of the historic Calcutta Cup. With Scotland winning their last four encounters and showing impressive form, this match promises to be a fierce battle between the old rivals, potentially upsetting the traditional balance of power in this fixture.
Match Details
Wales vs Ireland
- Date: Saturday, February 22, 2025
- Kick-off time: 2:15 PM GMT (9:15 AM ET)
- Venue: Principality Stadium, Cardiff
The Principality Stadium, with its retractable roof and capacity for over 74,000 fans, will be electric as Wales hosts Ireland. Interestingly, this stadium was the first in the UK to have a fully retractable roof, installed in 1999.
England vs Scotland
- Date: Saturday, February 22, 2025
- Kick-off time: 4:45 PM GMT (11:45 AM ET)
- Venue: Allianz Stadium, Twickenham
Twickenham, the hallowed ground of English rugby, will once again host the oldest international rugby fixture. The first England-Scotland match was played in 1871, marking the beginning of international rugby as we know it.
For NYC rugby fans: The Winslow, located at 243 E 14th St, New York, will be showing both games live. This British-inspired gin bar offers the perfect atmosphere to enjoy the Six Nations action with fellow rugby enthusiasts.
Team Analysis
Wales
Wales enters this match with a chip on their shoulder after a disappointing start to their Six Nations campaign. Key players to watch include:
- Gareth Davies: The scrum-half’s quick thinking and explosive pace could be crucial in breaking down Ireland’s defense.
- Louis Rees-Zammit: The young winger has been in scintillating form, scoring three tries in Wales’ last two matches.
- Alun Wyn Jones: The veteran lock continues to defy age, providing invaluable leadership and experience to the squad.
Wales suffered a narrow 24-20 loss to France in their opening match but bounced back with a convincing 35-17 win over Italy. However, they’ve been dealt a blow with the loss of flanker Justin Tipuric to a hamstring injury. Coach Wayne Pivac has called up Josh Navidi as a replacement, adding some fresh energy to the back row.
Ireland
Ireland comes into this match riding high after two dominant performances. Their key players include:
- Johnny Sexton: The fly-half continues to orchestrate Ireland’s attack with precision and flair.
- Tadhg Furlong: The prop’s scrummaging prowess and surprising agility in open play make him a constant threat.
- James Lowe: The winger has been on fire, scoring four tries in Ireland’s first two matches.
Ireland opened their campaign with a resounding 42-10 victory over Scotland, followed by a hard-fought 27-22 win against England. They’ve managed to avoid any major injuries, but coach Andy Farrell has made one tactical change, bringing in Ronan Kelleher at hooker to add more dynamism to the front row.
England
England is looking to regain their footing after a mixed start to the tournament. Key players to watch:
- Owen Farrell: The captain’s leadership and goal-kicking will be crucial in what promises to be a tight match.
- Maro Itoje: The lock’s disruptive presence at the lineout and breakdown could prove decisive.
- Henry Arundell: The young winger has been a revelation, scoring three tries in his first two Six Nations appearances.
England started with a disappointing 27-22 loss to Ireland but rebounded with a convincing 38-15 win over France. They’ve been forced to make one change, with Joe Marler replacing the injured Mako Vunipola at loosehead prop.
Scotland
Scotland enters this match brimming with confidence after two strong performances. Their key players include:
- Finn Russell: The mercurial fly-half’s ability to create something out of nothing makes him a constant threat.
- Stuart Hogg: The fullback’s counter-attacking skills and booming boot provide Scotland with a potent weapon.
- Hamish Watson: The flanker’s work rate and ability over the ball at the breakdown will be crucial in disrupting England’s rhythm.
Scotland opened with a tough 42-10 loss to Ireland but bounced back impressively with a 31-24 victory over Wales. They’ve made one change to their starting XV, with Sam Skinner replacing the injured Jonny Gray in the second row.
Prediction
In the Wales vs Ireland clash, I’m predicting a narrow victory for Ireland, with a likely score of 24-20. Ireland’s recent form and the depth of their squad give them a slight edge, but playing at the Principality Stadium is always a challenge. Expect a fierce battle at the breakdown and a tense finish.
For England vs Scotland, I’m going out on a limb and predicting a surprise Scotland win, 28-25. Scotland’s recent dominance in this fixture, combined with their exciting brand of rugby under Gregor Townsend, could see them upset the odds at Twickenham. The key will be whether they can withstand England’s forward power and create opportunities for their dangerous backline.
The Final Whistle: What’s at Stake in Round 3
As we head into Round 3 of the Six Nations 2025, the tournament is finely poised. Wales vs Ireland promises to be a physical encounter that could go either way, while England vs Scotland has all the ingredients for a classic Calcutta Cup match. With playoff spots and national pride on the line, these games are not to be missed.
For rugby fans in New York City, The Winslow offers the perfect venue to soak up the atmosphere and enjoy these crucial matches. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to the sport, the Six Nations never fails to deliver drama, skill, and passion. So gather your friends, don your team colors, and prepare for a Saturday filled with world-class rugby action. The road to the Six Nations title runs through Round 3, and you won’t want to miss a minute of it!