Alex Payne previews the final round of Six Nations and backs England for the Grand Slam

So we're already at the final weekend of a Six Nations tournament that has thrown up so many more questions than it has answers. How did Italy thump France, crumble to the Scots and come close to defeating England?

Round 4 finished with Italy upbeat after pushing England, and Ireland on their knees after the stalemate with France. And it is a familiar tale for Ireland this season - since their brilliant first half in Cardiff, Declan Kidney's side have made a habit of falling short, losing to England by six, Scotland by four and drawing with France. They have not been great, but they've not been as bad as things might seem. On paper it is still a strong outfit, if a little weary after last weekend, but they are a side who should expect to beat Italy. The Azzuri certainly ran England closer than most expected, but it was more through Red Rose ambivalence rather than Italian brilliance. They do pose dangers with the likes of Giovanbattista Venditti (100/30 a/t), Andrea Masi (7/2 a/t) and obviously Sergio Parisse (7/2 a/t) all capable of troubling Ireland's defence. But Declan Kidney has stuck the lively Craig Gilroy straight back in on the wing (17/2 first try scorer) and I also like the heavy duty ball carrying of Sean O'Brien (7/2 a/t) and Cian Healy (11/2 a/t) - both Lions candidates who are after big last rounds. However, if you do believe in fairy tales, how about Brian O'Driscoll to round off this campaign and possibly his Ireland career with the last try at 10/1? Smiles all round if that is to be the case, and I'm going with Ireland by 6-10 at a boosted 5/1.

France v Scotland

There is less doubt for me with last game of the Six Nations, and having backed France in every game bar England I am going with them again, believing they simply have to play to their potential at some point. Valiant though Scotland have been, I think the French forwards will lay the foundations that will allow Freddy Michelak to show the kind of form Philippe St.Andre keeps picking him for. When you look at the French teamsheet it is almost inconceivable that they're in the position they are - so much talent in the back line and I would sprinkle my chips across Clerc, Medard and Huget as anytime try scorers. For me though, the real excitement lies around the flair of Fofana (15/8 a/t) and the bosh of Bastareaud (12/1 to score first.) So after much deliberation I am going with France to beat the 12 point handicap, Ireland and England which is available at 100/30 and that does of course bring England home in the Six Nations winner, Grand Slam and Triple Crown outrights. If you're looking for some flair how about a punt on North, O'Driscoll and Basteraud to all score at 41/1. Such has been the nature of this season's Six Nations that there has been a fair amount of heads or tails in making the calls this weekend, but either way lets hope the coins come in in the final round.