Saturday also saw the match between Ireland and Scotland.

With both teams looking to bounce back from poor showings at the world cup only a few months ago it was safe to say that this was going to be a tough and physical game.

Both teams have had some major changes sine the world cup, with key players retiring and new captains and coaches coming in.

Ireland's new Head Coach Andy Farrell had selected a strong side and by naming Sexton as captain in is safe to assume that he see's Sexton as a key player in Ireland's future.

Scotland on the other hand have had their own off field problems with Finn Russell being dropped from the squad due to behaviour problems.

On the field they have a new captain in Stuart Hogg.

I would say that Gregor Townsend is going to be under serious pressure to get good performances from the squad in this years competition if not it could be likely that he would step down as Scotland coach.

The game was a close competition with both teams showing good play early on, making line breaks but then not being able to capitalise on the opportunities.

Both teams committed a number of penalties at the breakdown this brought the kickers into the game and with Sexton in good from off the boot Ireland where able to push into a early lead which was then added to as Sexton crossed for the opening try to the Irish mid way thought the first half.

Ireland where unable to build on this lead for the rest of the half with Scotland knocking on the door and putting pressure on the Irish defence.

This lead to a try in the corner for Hogg but it was disallowed for a knock on over the line.

After this point the game became an arm wrestle between both sides. Physical ball carriers in the close quarters and some strong running from the backs saw both teams pressure each others try lines.

The game in the end was decided by the boots of the kickers and Sexton came out on top.

Ireland walked away with the win but in a less than convincing performance.

Scotland played well and in a close game it was won on a key moment, Hogg knocking the ball on over the line may well of cost Scotland the game.

Positives for Scotland are that they played consistently well for the 80 minutes and pushed Ireland all the way.

In another game it could of gone there way.

Hastings stepped up well at 10 and the back row for Scotland where brilliant.

Moving into next week they need to be more accurate with there play and take there opportunities.

Ireland where good in parts and did enough to keep Scotland out towards the end, but overall need to step the game up and be able to play constantly for the 80 minutes.

In my opinion Ireland need to look at building a new 10 and a new game plan.

Ireland will be a threat this tournament but without being able to play consistently for 80 minutes they will struggle to beat other teams.