Top 10 Six Nations Try-Saving Tackles: A Definitive Ranking

Hey rugby fans! Let's dive into the heart-stopping world of try-saving tackles. These are the moments that make you leap off your couch, the plays that swing matches, and the tackles that become instant legends. We're going to break down the top 10 try-saving tackles in Six Nations history, ranking them based on their sheer athleticism, importance in the game, and overall wow factor. So, buckle up, because we're about to relive some of the most incredible defensive plays ever seen on the rugby pitch.

What Makes a Try-Saving Tackle Truly Great?

Before we jump into the list, let's quickly discuss what elevates a tackle from good to try-saving great. It's not just about stopping a player; it's about the context, the timing, and the sheer desperation involved.

• Timing is Everything: A try-saving tackle often happens in the nick of time, with the opposition inches from the try line. It's the last line of defense, the final stand against a certain score. These tackles require incredible anticipation and split-second decision-making.
• The Importance of the Moment: A tackle in the 79th minute to secure a one-point lead is inherently more impactful than a similar tackle earlier in the game. The stakes are higher, the pressure is immense, and the reward for success is massive. We'll be looking at tackles that dramatically shifted the momentum of the match.
• Athleticism and Technique: Of course, the tackle itself needs to be something special. We're talking about perfectly timed hits, bone-jarring impacts, and incredible feats of strength and agility. A try-saving tackle often involves overcoming a significant disadvantage in size or speed.
• The "Wow" Factor: Some tackles just have that extra something – a gravity-defying leap, a last-ditch lunge, or an unbelievable display of power. These are the tackles that make you rewind the replay and share it with your friends.

With these criteria in mind, let's get to the list! Prepare for some serious rugby brilliance.

1. Brian O'Driscoll vs. France, 2000

Let's kick things off with a legendary moment from a legendary player. Brian O'Driscoll's try-saving tackle against France in 2000 is often cited as one of the greatest defensive plays in Six Nations history, and for good reason. This wasn't just a tackle; it was a statement. It was the moment O'Driscoll announced himself on the international stage, and it helped Ireland secure a crucial victory. The context of this tackle amplifies its greatness – Ireland hadn't won in Paris for 28 years, a drought that weighed heavily on the team and its fans. France, a rugby powerhouse, were on the attack, looking to break the Irish defense and extend their lead. The French winger was barreling down the sideline, seemingly destined for the try line. But then, O'Driscoll appeared, a green blur cutting across the field. He launched himself, perfectly timing his hit to not only stop the winger but also dislodge the ball. The impact was thunderous, the crowd erupted, and Ireland's hopes remained alive. This tackle wasn't just about stopping a try; it was about shifting momentum. It ignited the Irish team and silenced the Parisian crowd. It demonstrated O'Driscoll's incredible athleticism, his unwavering commitment, and his innate understanding of the game. The sheer determination displayed by O'Driscoll in this moment is what truly sets it apart. He refused to be beaten, throwing his body on the line for his team and his country. It's the kind of play that inspires generations of rugby players. The legacy of this tackle extends far beyond the game itself. It became a symbol of Irish resilience and a testament to the power of individual brilliance within a team context. It's a moment etched in the memories of Irish fans, a reminder of what can be achieved through passion, dedication, and a never-say-die attitude. So, for its historical significance, its sheer athleticism, and its profound impact on the game, Brian O'Driscoll's tackle against France in 2000 rightfully claims the top spot on our list. It's a try-saving tackle for the ages.

2. Mike Brown vs. Ireland, 2014

Next up, we have Mike Brown's incredible try-saving tackle against Ireland in 2014. This was a crucial moment in a tense Six Nations encounter, a game that ultimately played a significant role in England's championship victory. Brown, known for his fearless defense and unwavering commitment, produced a moment of brilliance that showcased his exceptional tackling ability. The situation was critical: Ireland were on the attack, pressing hard for a try that would have given them a significant lead. The Irish winger looked certain to score, with only Brown standing between him and the try line. But Brown, with lightning-fast reflexes and impeccable timing, executed a perfect tackle. He wrapped up the winger, preventing him from grounding the ball and securing a crucial turnover for England. This tackle wasn't just about stopping a try; it was about maintaining England's momentum and preventing Ireland from gaining the upper hand. It was a game-changing play that demonstrated Brown's defensive prowess and his importance to the England team. The sheer physicality of Brown's tackle was impressive. He put his body on the line, absorbing a significant impact to prevent the score. It was a testament to his bravery and his willingness to do whatever it takes for his team. Beyond the physicality, Brown's tackle also highlighted his tactical awareness. He knew exactly when and where to make the hit, ensuring that the winger was stopped in his tracks. It was a masterclass in defensive technique. The significance of this tackle cannot be overstated. It helped England secure a vital victory against a strong Irish team, a victory that ultimately paved the way for their Six Nations triumph. It's a moment that England fans will remember fondly, a testament to Brown's contribution to the team's success. Mike Brown's try-saving tackle against Ireland in 2014 is a classic example of a player stepping up in a crucial moment and delivering a game-changing play. It's a tackle that deserves its place among the greatest try-savers in Six Nations history. It exemplifies the defensive qualities that make rugby such a compelling sport.

3. Leigh Halfpenny vs. France, 2013

Our third spot belongs to Leigh Halfpenny's incredible try-saving tackle against France in 2013. This tackle wasn't just about preventing a try; it was about securing a Six Nations title for Wales. The stakes were incredibly high, the pressure was immense, and Halfpenny delivered a moment of pure brilliance. Wales were leading by a narrow margin, but France were mounting a late attack, desperately seeking a try that would snatch the victory and the championship away. The French winger burst through the Welsh defense, heading for the try line with only Halfpenny in his path. Halfpenny, known for his unwavering defense and exceptional tackling technique, launched himself at the winger. He made a perfectly timed hit, stopping the winger in his tracks and preventing him from grounding the ball. The crowd erupted, the Welsh players celebrated, and the Six Nations title was theirs. This tackle was a testament to Halfpenny's incredible commitment and his ability to perform under pressure. He knew what was on the line, and he rose to the occasion with a moment of defensive brilliance. The technique displayed by Halfpenny in this tackle was flawless. He wrapped up the winger, ensuring that he couldn't offload the ball or stretch out to score. It was a textbook example of a try-saving tackle. Beyond the technique, Halfpenny's tackle also showcased his bravery. He put his body on the line, absorbing a significant impact to prevent the score. It was a moment of pure courage and determination. The significance of this tackle in securing the Six Nations title for Wales cannot be overstated. It's a moment etched in the memories of Welsh fans, a symbol of their team's resilience and their championship-winning spirit. Leigh Halfpenny's try-saving tackle against France in 2013 is a defining moment in Welsh rugby history. It's a tackle that will be replayed for years to come, a testament to Halfpenny's brilliance and the excitement of the Six Nations Championship.

4. Chris Ashton vs. Australia, 2010

Moving on, we have Chris Ashton's try-saving tackle against Australia in 2010. Now, Ashton is primarily known for his try-scoring prowess, but this tackle proves he's no slouch on defense either! This was a moment of unexpected brilliance from a player often associated with attacking flair. England were playing against a formidable Australian side, and the Wallabies were mounting a dangerous attack. An Australian player broke through the defensive line and looked certain to score, but Ashton, with incredible speed and determination, chased him down. He launched himself into a perfectly timed tackle, preventing the try and earning a huge roar from the Twickenham crowd. What makes this tackle so memorable is the sheer unexpectedness of it. Ashton, the winger renowned for his scoring celebrations, showed that he could also deliver on the defensive end. It was a testament to his all-around athleticism and his commitment to the team. The speed Ashton displayed in this tackle was remarkable. He covered a significant amount of ground in a short space of time, demonstrating his incredible pace and his ability to chase down even the fastest opponents. Beyond the speed, Ashton's tackle also showcased his technique. He made a clean, effective hit, ensuring that the Australian player was stopped in his tracks. The impact of this tackle extended beyond just preventing a try. It lifted the England team and energized the crowd. It was a moment that demonstrated Ashton's value to the team and his willingness to put his body on the line. Chris Ashton's try-saving tackle against Australia in 2010 is a reminder that even the most attacking players can produce moments of defensive brilliance. It's a tackle that highlights the all-around nature of rugby and the importance of every player contributing on both sides of the ball.

5. Tommy Bowe vs. Wales, 2009

In the fifth spot, we have Tommy Bowe's superb try-saving tackle against Wales in 2009. This was a classic Six Nations encounter, a tense and hard-fought battle between two fierce rivals. Bowe, known for his attacking threat and his try-scoring ability, produced a moment of defensive brilliance that helped Ireland secure a crucial victory. The game was on the line, with Wales mounting a late attack, desperately seeking a try that would give them the lead. A Welsh player broke through the Irish defense and looked certain to score, but Bowe, with incredible determination and timing, made a stunning tackle. He launched himself into the attacker, stopping him just short of the try line and preventing a certain score. This tackle was a testament to Bowe's commitment and his willingness to put his body on the line for his team. He knew the importance of the moment, and he delivered a play that ultimately proved to be decisive. The athleticism displayed by Bowe in this tackle was impressive. He covered a significant amount of ground quickly, demonstrating his speed and his ability to react to a dangerous situation. The technique of the tackle was also crucial. Bowe made a clean, effective hit, ensuring that the Welsh player was stopped in his tracks and couldn't ground the ball. The significance of this tackle cannot be overstated. It helped Ireland secure a vital victory in a crucial Six Nations match, a victory that ultimately contributed to their Grand Slam triumph that year. Tommy Bowe's try-saving tackle against Wales in 2009 is a defining moment in his career and a testament to his all-around rugby ability. It's a tackle that Irish fans will remember fondly, a symbol of their team's resilience and their championship-winning season.

6-10: Honorable Mentions and Other Great Tackles

Okay, guys, we've covered the top 5, but there are so many other incredible try-saving tackles in Six Nations history that deserve a mention! Ranking these plays is tough because so many factors come into play. But here are some honorable mentions, tackles that were amazing in their own right and could easily be in someone else's top 10:

• Jamie Heaslip vs. France, 2015: A textbook tackle, perfectly executed to deny a certain try.
• Dan Biggar vs. England, 2015: A crucial intervention in a high-stakes match.
• Sergio Parisse vs. Ireland, 2013: A display of pure strength and determination.
• George North vs. Australia, 2012: An athletic feat of incredible proportions.
• Johnny Sexton vs. France, 2018: A late game game-saver for Ireland on their way to a Grand Slam.

These tackles, and countless others, highlight the incredible athleticism, skill, and bravery of the players who compete in the Six Nations Championship. They are moments that exemplify the spirit of the game and the importance of defense in securing victory.

Why Try-Saving Tackles Matter

Try-saving tackles are more than just impressive plays; they are game-changers. They can swing momentum, lift spirits, and ultimately decide the outcome of a match. These tackles demonstrate a player's commitment, their willingness to sacrifice, and their ability to perform under pressure. They are the embodiment of defensive excellence and a crucial component of any successful rugby team.

In a sport often celebrated for its attacking flair and try-scoring brilliance, it's important to recognize the value of defense. Try-saving tackles are the unsung heroes of the game, the moments that prevent points and keep teams in contention. They are a testament to the hard work, dedication, and tactical awareness of the players who make them.

So, the next time you're watching a Six Nations match, keep an eye out for those try-saving tackles. They might just be the most important plays of the game!

Conclusion: The Legacy of Great Tackles

So, there you have it, our take on the top 10 try-saving tackles in Six Nations history! It's a subjective list, of course, and we know there will be debates and disagreements. But that's part of what makes rugby so great – the passion, the opinions, and the memories that these incredible moments create. These tackles are not just highlights; they are stories. They tell tales of bravery, skill, and the unwavering determination to defend the try line. They become part of the folklore of the Six Nations, passed down from one generation of fans to the next.

Ultimately, these try-saving tackles remind us that rugby is a team sport, where individual brilliance can shine brightest within a collective effort. They are a celebration of defense, a recognition of the crucial role it plays in the game, and a tribute to the players who dedicate themselves to mastering this vital skill. We hope you enjoyed this trip down memory lane! What are your favorite try-saving tackles? Let us know in the comments below!