Optimism is swelling again for Scotland but a first win over Ireland in 10 games may be a must for a genuine Six Nations title challenge. Scotland will be out to end their recent hoodoo against Ireland as Gregor Townsend’s side look to make a statement of Six Nations title intent. A game of three parts against Italy saw the Scots start and finish well to eventually secure a bonus-point victory to set them on course in the competition. Any genuine hope of a first Six Nations crown will surely rest, though, on a win here - and Ireland have emerged successful in the last 10 meetings between the pair.
![[Ireland interim head coach Simon Easterby during a press conference at the Radisson Hotel, Dublin Airport]](https://static.independent.co.uk/2025/02/09/9/06/Ireland-interim-head-coach-Simon-Easterby-during-a-press-conference-at-the-Radisson-Hotel-Dublin-Air.jpeg)
Recent battles for the Centenary Quaich have seen seemingly genuine ill-feeling between the two sides, but Ireland have always emerged on top. The Simon Easterby era, brief though it may be, began in fine fashion with win over England in their campaign opener as the two-time defending champions showed their title-winning qualities. Will their pursuit of an unprecedented third consecutive title continue, or can Scotland finally throw them off course?.
![[Ireland interim head coach Simon Easterby during a press conference at the Radisson Hotel, Dublin Airport]](https://static.independent.co.uk/2025/02/09/9/34/Ireland-interim-head-coach-Simon-Easterby-during-a-press-conference-at-the-Radisson-Hotel-Dublin-Air.jpeg)
