Since its inception in 2000, the Six Nations has consistently produced drama, excitement and unpredictable events on—and occasionally off—the pitch.
There have been dramatic title chases, big scraps and many, many remarkable tries.
Here are 11 of the most iconic moments in Six Nations history.
1. Shane Williams sensational score
There were 10 minutes left at the Millenium Stadium and Wales trailed 24-14 when they staged one of the greatest, and most thrilling, comebacks seen in international rugby.
Stephen Jones levelled the game with a 79th-minute penalty before Williamswent under the posts for a famous victory.
2. Italy’s dream debut
Italy marked their Six Nations debut with an emphatic 34-20 victory over defending champions Scotland in Rome.
Diego Dominguez orchestrated the Scots downfall with an impeccable performance, kicking 29 of his side’s 34 points with six penalty kicks, a conversion and a hat-trick of drop goals.
3. Brian O’Driscoll announces himself to the world
A memorable day once again for many reasons. Ireland secured their first win in France for 28 years, while a certain 21 year-old Brian O’Driscoll set the game alight with a stunning hat-trick. The day O’Driscoll truly announced himself to the world.
4. Martin Johnson takes on Ireland
Martin Johnson led his time out to the wrong side for the anthems and Ireland were not happy. President Mary McAlleese ended up walking on the pitch, and had to get her shoes dirty.
The mind-games seemed to work as England went to to win the Grand Slam that day.
5. Daly’s match-winning try
What is so memorable about the moment is the quality of George Ford's pass to Owen Farrell and then Farrell's inch perfect delivery to the Wasps winger. English magic in the land of wizards.
6. Yachvili scores Grand Slam decider
Dimitri Yachvili's clever grubber kick and chase try was the moment when France were revenged for the semi final loss in Australia. It was the highlight of a masterful performance from the Biarritz scrum half as he kicked the goals and made this soon to be Grand Slam French team's only other try.
7. Sexton’s Miracle Drop Goal
An excruciating 41 phases passed before Ireland forced themselves into a kicking position. Still, standing just inside the French half, the odds were stacked against Sexton to actually deliver a winning kick.
He couldn’t have caught it any sweeter as the ball sailed between the posts to send the travelling Irish fans into a frenzy.
8. Gavin Henson v Matthew Tait
In Wales’ opening match of the 2005 Six Nations against England, centre Gavin Henson puts in a great performance, tackling, running and kicking all on top form. He was man of the match and this win propelled Wales towards a Grand Slam.
Un his first touch of the ball in international rugby Mathew Tait was smashed backwards by Henson who would give the young centre a nightmare debutnull
9. Ronan O’Gara ends Ireland’s drought
Ronan O’Gara’s temperament had been questioned by various pundits in the build-up to 2009’s dramatic Six Nations title decider at the Millennium Stadium.
Ireland triumphed 17–15 when O’Gara, having endured a disappointing first-half performance, struck a drop goal in the 85th minute to the nation’s second only grand slam.
10. Scotland rain on England’s parade
This match was full on, unremitting confrontation from the very first whistle to last.
The face of Andy Nicol at Murrayfield as he lifted the Calcutta Cup in 2000 spoke a thousand words.
It was the standout image on a startling afternoon, which saw England’s Grand Slam dreams crumble.
England won the Championship Trophy but nobody at Murrayfield noticed as yhe Scots team came out for a lap of honour.
11. Croke Park welcomes England
One of the most spine-tingling moments in the history of sport . From John Hayes’ tears, to Croke Park standing for God Save the Queen, Ireland’s clash with England in 2007 was memorable for so many reasons.
The respect shown for the English national anthem, despite the political issues will forever be remembered. A defining moment.
TRENDING
LATEST NEWS
LATEST COMMENTS
Loading