The second round of the 2023 Guinness Six Nations produced one of the all-time great matches in the Championship’s history, and two tries from Ireland’s epic win over France make this week’s Try of the Round shortlist.
It is time for you to cast your vote after another enthralling weekend which saw the world’s top two go toe-to-toe, Scotland make history and England secure the first win of the Steve Borthwick era.
For the second week running, we have whittled 18 scores down to four – now it’s your turn to pick your favourite.
Damian Penaud – Ireland v FRANCE
When Romain Ntamack’s hurried pass bobbled its way inside France’s 22, it seemed unthinkable that those wearing blue at Aviva Stadium would be rejoicing a few moments later. But that is a testament to the wizardry of Damian Penaud, who after collecting Thomas Ramos’ tap-on, galloped downfield. He would pass inside to Anthony Jelonch, before the flanker returned the favour to set Penaud clear for another wonderful effort.
Hugo Keenan – IRELAND v France
Dublin was on its feet for Ireland’s breath-taking first score against France. It may have been the result of a pre-rehearsed move but it was executed to perfection, with a sea of runners attracting the eyes of the French defence, allowing Hugo Keenan to dart clear after a reverse pass from Finlay Bealham. The flying full-back then pinned his ears back to cross for a sublime score.
Kyle Steyn – SCOTLAND v Wales (first try)
Kyle Steyn was fantastic once again for Scotland as they made it two from two, but even he will admit that Finn Russell’s brilliance was the reason for his first score against Wales. The mercurial fly-half’s try assist for Steyn was so outrageous it had half of BT Murrayfield in disbelief. But it was a classic of the Russell genre, with Steyn in the right place at the right time to receive the offload and dot down.
Henry Arundell – ENGLAND v Italy
England’s Henry Arundell certainly made his Championship debut one to remember, scoring just 16 minutes after coming on as a replacement. The young speedster had been sidelined with foot trouble since October but no showed no sign of any sluggishness on his return to the Test arena, jinking his way home after great work by fellow supersub Alex Mitchell. His acrobatic finish was the perfect way to round off Steve Borthwick’s first win as head coach.
