Ireland team v Italy - P #291

[Dowlinz]

If we're picking on form and ability..

1. Healy
2. Best
3. Ross
4. DOC
5. POC
6. Ferris
7. SOB
8. Heaslip
9. Reddan
10. ROG
11. Trimble
12. D'arcy
13. BOD
14. Bowe
15. Kearney

Theres a real temptation to rest some of the more fragile players for the bigger games, particularly Ferris and BOD although that probably wouldn't be wise.

[oilean]

[QUOTE=Dowlinz;963721]If we're picking on form and ability..

1. Healy
2. Best
3. Ross
4. DOC
5. POC
6. Ferris
7. SOB
8. Heaslip
9. Reddan
10. ROG
11. Trimble
12. D'arcy
13. BOD
14. Bowe
15. Kearney

Theres a real temptation to rest some of the more fragile players for the bigger games, particularly Ferris and BOD although that probably wouldn't be wise.[/QUOTE
Where is Earls if you are picking on form and ability????

[The Last Stand]

I would have Earls in there. Better finisher and solid defensively.

[the plastic paddy]

If we're picking on form and ability..

1. Healy
2. Best
3. Ross
4. DOC
5. POC
6. Ferris
7. SOB
8. Heaslip
9. Reddan
10. ROG
11. Trimble
12. D'arcy
13. BOD
14. Bowe
15. Kearney

Theres a real temptation to rest some of the more fragile players for the bigger games, particularly Ferris and BOD although that probably wouldn't be wise.Agree with your team bar OH on which I have no opinion and would leave to DK and Earls for AT but that is a good conundrum to have. Would query the big game line, we have to win this to top the group and give ourselves a realistic live chance of making the rugby world cup final, that is as big as it gets IMHO. Plus, Fez, SOB and Heaslip need gametime before Wales/SA. Hope Healy's Knee is ok in the morning.

[Dowlinz]

I don't have any huge preference between Trimble and Earls, both are quality players although Earls has had some dicey warmup games whereas Trimble has been strong every time. From his point of view he came into the 6N having a huge game against England, was the outstanding back in all of the warmups and again performed well today. You couldn't begrudge the man his spot if DK sided with him over Earls for Italy, hes earned his chance in a big game.

[Boo-boo]

This game for me is the ultimate ganble of our world cup. It scares the bejeebus out of me. I would hate to pick the team.
The Italians are tempetuos and fierce players that have all too often given us a run for our money.

Do we rest or best but most fragile but risk the loss of match fitness? Or do we go all out with the firsts and hope they last?

For me, the Italians always beat us up front. If by the looks of it we have a a formidable pack then I would play the first pack and play the risky combinations in the backs and let them loose.

I also think that this game should be played out between Boss and Murray.

Healy
Best
Ross
DOC
POC
Ferris
SOB
Heaslip
Boss
ROG
Trimble
D'arcy
Earls
Bowe
Kearney


Murray, Sexton to replace D'arcy,

[Native Land]

Agree with your team bar OH on which I have no opinion and would leave to DK and Earls for AT but that is a good conundrum to have. Would query the big game line, we have to win this to top the group and give ourselves a realistic live chance of making the rugby world cup final, that is as big as it gets IMHO. Plus, Fez, SOB and Heaslip need gametime before Wales/SA. Hope Healy's Knee is ok in the morning.

Only change I would make is Earls - he has to be on the pitch! Don't begrudge Trimble but no way would I leave off Earls! Re. OH - very hard one to call, cant but think of the 6n nations match where it was all but lost until Rog saved the day. As everyone says this match is going to be about kicks and probably missed kicks are a luxury we cant afford!! so Rog for me. Have to trust Deccie to call it!

[the plastic paddy]

I don't have any huge preference between Trimble and Earls, both are quality players although Earls has had some dicey warmup games whereas Trimble has been strong every time. From his point of view he came into the 6N having a huge game against England, was the outstanding back in all of the warmups and again performed well today. You couldn't begrudge the man his spot if DK sided with him over Earls for Italy, hes earned his chance in a big game.Wouldn't begrudge AT it at all Downlinz, great to see the fella coming to Rog's aid today as well, there is a real team spirit about this squad. Hopefully get the necessary win next weekend and the OH debate can kick off again!?!? Certainly the underneath of some collars are getting a bit warm, in DK I trust, Gwan Ireland.

[Aussiedub]

Same team as against Australia

[Talking Sense]

Same team as against Australia

Simply put, well said.

[bazzyg]

Same team as against Australia
Yep, if everyone is fit, it's that simple.

Earls has the best feet of all the backs available so Trimble doesn't get on (unless for Bowe) and Rog is a better man to run the game out off the bench but would never last the full 80 if he started. Murphy for the Bench, he did well today.

[Paddy Whac]

Same team as against Australia ROG has to start, we cant depend on Sexton to score penalties (40% success rate is failure rate) and the backs have shown they have no penetration to score tries.

[Aussiedub]

ROG has to start, we cant depend on Sexton to score penalties (40% success rate is failure rate) and the backs have shown they have no penetration to score tries.

No tries conceded while Sexton is on the pitch though.

USA scored 0 points with Sexton on, Aus scored 6 points and Russia scored 0 with Sexton on.

[hooke]

Same team as Oz if everone fit with Rog starting.

[Dowlinz]

No tries conceded while Sexton is on the pitch though.

USA scored 0 points with Sexton on, Aus scored 6 points and Russia scored 0 with Sexton on.

I agree, D'arcy throwing a wild pass was entirely ROGs fault.

[RED 49]

Re same 15 as against auz , I think that's going to be it but my worry is really 9 and 10 .johnny is just not doing it from dead ball kicks , rest of his game is fine , Italy will try to drag us into a dogfight and placekicks could ultimately decide game .

[The Word Is Born]

No tries conceded while Sexton is on the pitch though.

It seems this particular clip is going to get quite an airing.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SdBn5G7Y2RA

[Boo-boo]

Aussiedub, as regards your stats on the Johhny on and Johhny off and what happened, may I remind you that when it comes to taking penalties and conversions it is a one man game. When it comes to every other aspect of playing a game it is a 15 man game. Johnny is not nailing his kicks and we cannot afford that in this world cup especially up against Italy. It is not having a go at him or Munster tinted glasses, it is fact.

[Hugged Rugger]

If we didn't play our strongest team it would rightly get the Italians fires up. Play first 15, whatever that is, and if we can put them away get the likes of bod off if we can

[McCloud]

If we're picking on form and ability..

1. Healy
2. Best
3. Ross
4. DOC
5. POC
6. Ferris
7. SOB
8. Heaslip
9. Murray
10. ROG
11. Trimble
12. BOD
13. Earls
14. Bowe
15. Kearney

Theres a real temptation to rest some of the more fragile players for the bigger games, particularly Ferris and BOD although that probably wouldn't be wise.

If we are talking about in form players I don't see how D'Arcy can start. Murray offers a bit more of a physical presence then Redden and is still an 'unknown' for teams playing against him. Then move BO'D into 12 and the young pretender goes into 13.

[Dowlinz]

If we are talking about in form players I don't see how D'Arcy can start. Murray offers a bit more of a physical presence then Redden and is still an 'unknown' for teams playing against him. Then move BO'D into 12 and the young pretender goes into 13.

D'arce had a fine game against Oz. Your logic is baffling given Earls performance against France in the warmups where he was downright atrocious. If you're only as good as your last match both are in a good place. If we're talking last 2 months neither are.

[Liam2me]

Italy will not be a game where loads of tries are scored, the match will be won and lost on penalties and for that reason alone ROG has to start at 10.

My team would be,

1. Healy
2. Best
3. Ross
4. DOC
5. POC
6. Ferris
7. SOB
8. Leamy (Heaslip needs a wake up call)
9. Murray
10. ROG
11. Earls
12. D'arcy
13. BOD
14. Trimble
15. Kearney

Can't see DK picking that though

[Blindsider.]

Darcy will not be fit for Italy - would love to see Sexton at 12 but it won't happen :( Paddy Wallace...?Sigh.

ROG must start. Sexton's kick today illustrated why. Trimble pushing very hard for a start - I'd struggle to leave him out. Heaslip was quiet again today but will start - Leamy not quite there at the moment.

Harsh words, but I'd send Mushy back to Sale - he can't cut it at this level.

[Delmar O'Donnell]

Italy will not be a game where loads of tries are scored, the match will be won and lost on penalties and for that reason alone ROG has to start at 10.

My team would be,

1. Healy
2. Best
3. Ross
4. DOC
5. POC
6. Ferris
7. SOB
8. Leamy (Heaslip needs a wake up call)
9. Murray
10. ROG
11. Earls
12. D'arcy
13. BOD
14. Trimble
15. Kearney

Can't see DK picking that though

Leamy is not a Deccie favourite. I could see SOB at 8 before Leamy.

[Evil Omer]

I can understand why people want to field a side to rest key players, the problem is our second string showed today (in many cases) that they simply aren't good enough to guarantee the win we need against Italy.

[budgetwinger]

No tries conceded while Sexton is on the pitch though.

USA scored 0 points with Sexton on, Aus scored 6 points and Russia scored 0 with Sexton on.

Seriously? The tries we've conceded:

1. D'Arcy intercept, ROG not involved.
2. Brilliant run from the Russian 15. Boss came across too fast, left a gap between him and Heaslip (you could maybe argue Heaslip and the rest of the back row came off too slow - no idea where DR was, possibly he should have filled the gap?) and Kearney completely fluffed what should have been a straightforward one on one tackle. ROG not involved.
3. McFadden got done for pace, pure and simple (makes you wonder why RTE gave him such high marks) and once they were in behind the line they threw some neat passes. ROG not involved.

For me OH is a minor concern, we should really beat Italy whoever starts. I'm more concerned by the fact that our first choice centres offer nothing in attack and that we can't find a place for one of Earls/Trimble, both of whom deserve to play. I seriously think we need to have a look at a different centre combination, whether it be Sexton/BOD or BOD with Earls/Trimble/Bowe. If we don't have a cutting edge in the centres we're relying on monster performances from the back and rock solid defence from the backs every game. The forwards are unlikely to produce three more performances like Aus on the trot, and one thing we saw in the warm ups is that whoever plays in the centre we're vulnerable to conceding the odd try. McFadden has leaked two, Earls one, BOD one.

We need to at least try to get our two in form backs on the pitch. The only other option is to play Earls or Bowe at FB. Either way it's harsh on a player who's not done much wrong (Kearney or D'Arcy) but Italy, Wales and England/France will all be happy to take us on up front. We need to find something extra in the backs.

[Paddy Whac]

No tries conceded while Sexton is on the pitch though.

USA scored 0 points with Sexton on, Aus scored 6 points and Russia scored 0 with Sexton on.

USA - Darcy threw an intercept pass, maybe he wanted to ensure Deccie stuck with Sexton :eek:

Zero points from the Wallabies when ROG was on the field.

ROG had zero responsibility for the tries today.

The difference between Sexton and ROG is that ROG is nailing his kicks, pure and simply

[rathbaner]

I'd say it'll be the same line up as for the Oz game except for ROG. Knock out 10- man defensive rugby and hope Tommy or Earls can get a lucky break for a try.

Lose this and we're on the plane home. Knock out rugby starts with this one.

[Ragusa]

Worst case scenario we get beaten by Italy without any Bonus point for Ireland and they go through instead of us. That is a nightmare to contemplate. This game is so important for Ireland that it gives me goose bumps to think if the result is not a Win for Ireland . Irish Teams before have done this to us

[Hugh Jardon]

Glad to see we're all still a glass half empty shower. :confused:

My expected team for Italy: D'arcy injured as i suspect.

1. Healy
2. Best
3. Ross
4. DOC
5. POC
6. Ferris
7. SOB
8. Heaslip
9. Reddan
10. Sexton
11. Trimble
12. Earls
13. BOD
14. Bowe
15. Kearney

[Woggas]

Leamy is not a Deccie favourite. I could see SOB at 8 before Leamy.
I don't think Leamy is a relation of a number 8, and I think that's why Kidney won't pick him there.

[fitzy73]

Rog is worth about 9 points against Italy. Horses for courses, and ROG should get the nod for a game that's likely to be a penalty fest.

[Cowboy]

1. Healy 2. Best 3. Ross
4. DOC 5. POC
6. Ferris 7. SOB
8. Heaslip

9. Murray
10. Sexton
11. Trimble
12. BOD 13. Earls
14. Bowe
15. Kearney

And that team is only on the basis Darcy aint fit. We'll be going up against better backrows and better scrumhalves than the Italians if we win. Thats why Murray should start IMO, he's eclipsed Reddan in the few moments he's been on the field, he doesnt get flustered and what he has ooodles of is time, he'll force Sexton onto the ball and give him space. The only reason I picked Sexton to start is because I'm trying to keep an ace in the hole should things be going a bit arse about tit. If we're there or thereabouts after 50 mins then you reassess but we most certainly need both outhalves firing. Rog can turn a game in 2 minutes, Sexton struggles when he's parachuted onto the field. Earls outshone Wallace today, and I have a lot of time for Paddy Wallace, he's stayed the course when others would have gotten too fed up. But Earls is a Lion, and a big game player, he bagged a brace today and showed what he can do with half a chance. The notion of Drico making holes and drawing defenders onto him to let a speedster like Earls loose is extremely exciting. It'd be the first time they'd paired the master and the apprentice too.

[Evil Omer]

I'd actually say after today that Boss should be the bench SH. Murray I would guess is the starter, hence left completely clear of this game. I thought Boss-Reddan was a straight shoot for this game but Boss played almost all the game so maybe Reddan was being saved as well. I hope not because on performances so far he's #3 for me.

On this subject, what is with changing both half backs every time? I don't get it. Why not find out what Sexton can do with Boss/Murray or ROG can do with Boss/Reddan. It just makes no sense that we're almost blaming both half backs each time we need a change or saying both are good each time we need to rest. Yet the individual performances don't back this up.

My team - which I don't expect to see - would be:

Court (I want Healy in a glass box that says break only in emergency, if Court can't hack it then that's the selectors' fault)
Best
Ross
DOC
POC
Ferris
SOB
Heaslip
Murray
ROG
Trimble
Sexton
BOD
Bowe
Earls

Bench:
Healy, Cronin, Ryan, Leamy, Boss, Kearney, Wallace

[fitzy73]

Boss was average enough today. I can't think of a single break he made. Not one - and that's against Russia!

[Evil Omer]

Boss was average enough today. I can't think of a single break he made. Not one - and that's against Russia!

but on the other side he didn't get beaten up at the breakdown or physically bullied in defence the way Reddan has been. He's a solid physical player and he did what he had to do. Considering our back row were happily running over them he didn't need to be a hero. That's one thing I'd say he definitely has over Reddan, he makes calls. Reddan, for me, struggled the second he didn't have the likes of Dallaglio and Ibanez around him to call the shots.

[Thomond78]

ROG 10, Sexton 12.

Tempted to go with Murray, not sure about it.

Waiting to see on Kearney's fitness.

[Cadroc]

Healy Best Ross
DOC POC
Ryan SOB Ferris (Heaslip does need a good fonging to get him going)

9 Murray

10 Rog (very close call and if Sexton could nail his kicks i'd be calling for him)

11 Trimble

12 Bod

13 Earls

14 Bowe

15 Kearney

If sexton sorts his kicking out and we had him at OH with that backline it could be very exciting.

[Evil Omer]

ROG 10, Sexton 12.

Tempted to go with Murray, not sure about it.

Waiting to see on Kearney's fitness.

Or wait to see if he ever makes a last man one on one tackle stick in his entire international career? Kearney has a huge amount of talent, which could be used in other positions and one glaring weakness that is shown up in his chosen position. He frustrates the life out of me and fitness isn't the reason his last man defence is non-existent.

[Thomond78]

Or wait to see if he ever makes a last man one on one tackle stick in his entire international career? Kearney has a huge amount of talent, which could be used in other positions and one glaring weakness that is shown up in his chosen position. He frustrates the life out of me and fitness isn't the reason his last man defence is non-existent.

I can understand that. He was made for aerial ping-pong, and that's gone now. Who would you have FB? Earls?

[Evil Omer]

I can understand that. He was made for aerial ping-pong, and that's gone now. Who would you have FB? Earls?

With the form Trimble is in and the fact an off form, not fully fit Tommy Bowe can still bag 2 tries, I'd say Earls. I'd love Kearney to turn his defence around because he's actually such a good runner and finisher, good hands, booming kicks, superb under high ball, everything else is going for him.

Question is how would Earls defend there as well. May possibly be that Bowe (played FB for Ulster in early days IIRC) is the best option. Trimble and Earls on the wings and Bowe running those disguised blind to open runs he does so well from FB.

[RED 49]

Big concern for me going in against Italy is front row , they are going to target scrum big time , is court fit ? If not Tony Buckley is not good enough or consistent enough in my view, if court is not fit then we could suffer if Ross or Healy get injured .

[McCloud]

Boss was average enough today. I can't think of a single break he made. Not one - and that's against Russia!

Clever try he scored in fairness. Knew exactly what he had to do to get it awarded. Would Redden have seen that?

[McCloud]

D'arce had a fine game against Oz. Your logic is baffling given Earls performance against France in the warmups where he was downright atrocious. If you're only as good as your last match both are in a good place. If we're talking last 2 months neither are.
I'm talking WC not interested in the August friendlies D'Arcy is off the pace and carrying an injury. We cannot afford him. Great player that he was.

[TippRed]

No tries conceded while Sexton is on the pitch though.

USA scored 0 points with Sexton on, Aus scored 6 points and Russia scored 0 with Sexton on.

Yes. but offset by how many missed penalties. You do not win games by stopping the other team scoring. You do it by outscoring them. that includes covering as many bases as possible by ensureing we have a penalty scorer on the pitch with a high success rate ie ROG.

[sewa]

Yes. but offset by how many missed penalties. You do not win games by stopping the other team scoring. You do it by outscoring them. that includes covering as many bases as possible by ensureing we have a penalty scorer on the pitch with a high success rate ie ROG.
Dont take ADHD seriously. He is just a wum. I just had a look on 2postsaday.com and they all pretty much agree that ROG should be the starting 10

[blackwarrior]

1. Healy
2. Best
3. Ross

4. DOC
5. POC

6. Ferris
7. O'Brien
8. Heaslip

9. Murray
10. O'Gara

11. Earls
12. Darcy (Sexton if unfit)
13. O'Driscoll
14. Bowe

15. Kearney

Comments:
- I feel the pendulum has swung slightly towards ROG at 10. If so, I now feel that Kidney sees now Murray as the correct scrum half in this situation. I've been for Sexton up to now, but in a match where points are vital, I'm now for ROG.
- For the Italy game, I'd go with the Darcy-O'Driscoll partnership one more time, but I would expect to see Sexton tried at 12 one more time if Ireland open up a lead in the 2nd half. Sexton at 12 may be considered to start the QF if successful v Italy.
- Earls, on balance, on the wing, but what an impact sub Trimble would be. However, it will be more likely that Kearney will be subbed, moving Earls to FB, again an option for the QF if it goes well in the 2nd half v Italy.

I envy people who post here on their certainty as to O'Gara v Sexton, Earls v Trimble, etc. I have no such certainty, only a view after weighing up what I feel and making my choice. Kidney has earned our respect IMO and whoever he selects I'll probably accept that.

I think Italy is a one-off game, and it will all be up in the air one more time if things go well on Sunday.

Finally, in fairness to the management, things change on tour. Sexton at 12, ROG at 10. Earls over Trimble - these could all evolve over the next few games. Rightly so.

Strangely, I'm relaxed about Sunday. Italy will put it up to us, but this team and management are equal to it, and I'm backing them.

[Arthur Guinness]

I'
Bench:
Healy, Cronin, Ryan, Leamy, Boss, Kearney, Wallace

Any chance of Varley making the bench? If he doesn't he'll be the only player there who hasn't featured.

[MunsterTel]

Clever try he scored in fairness. Knew exactly what he had to do to get it awarded. Would Redden have seen that?

Always wondered why that trick wasn't used more often. I don't know alot about the game but surely its very difficult to defend? If you can position yourself like Ireland today the russians are stuck back on the line and the theres technically a try line now on your side that they can't stop you touching. Also, they can't hit ya head on as they have to stand either side of the post and thats about a meter apart. Strange you don't see it more often...

----------II-------II---------
ooooooooooooooooOoooooooo Exibit A, You cant defend that fella there from hitting the base of the post :)

[No. 16]

can't imagine reddan not knowing to do that. it's a fairly common ruling and the actual "goal" (huhhuh) in that position.
Tel, it is fairly commonly tried if the ruck is right in front of the posts. I think it's just not that common that the ruck is in front of the posts. but i lost count a long time ago how many tries i've seen awarded against the post. Sure stupid ol' me knew that was the target when the ruck ended up there. I'd certainly think reddan would have! (i guess).

[McCloud]

can't imagine reddan not knowing to do that. it's a fairly common ruling and the actual "goal" (huhhuh) in that position.
Tel, it is fairly commonly tried if the ruck is right in front of the posts. I think it's just not that common that the ruck is in front of the posts. but i lost count a long time ago how many tries i've seen awarded against the post. Sure stupid ol' me knew that was the target when the ruck ended up there. I'd certainly think reddan would have! (i guess).
I've not seen it done that often tbh, tries awarded against the post.

[No. 16]

no. not like every season. maybe i'm exaggerating to myself. but i've seen it a fair few times and ever since i was aware of it, i looked for it. I'm just saying it never dawned on me to offer praise. Sure Mrs. 16 had just let out a roar of "comeon irland!" and i said all they have to do now is get it up against the post. and she said, "He heard ya." I didn't realise i was a genius ;-)

[Daithi]

1. Healy
2. Best
3. Ross

4. DOC
5. POC

6. Ferris
7. O'Brien
8. Heaslip

9. Murray
10. O'Gara

11. Earls
12. Darcy (Sexton if unfit)
13. O'Driscoll
14. Bowe

15. Kearney

Comments:
- I feel the pendulum has swung slightly towards ROG at 10. If so, I now feel that Kidney sees now Murray as the correct scrum half in this situation. I've been for Sexton up to now, but in a match where points are vital, I'm now for ROG.
- For the Italy game, I'd go with the Darcy-O'Driscoll partnership one more time, but I would expect to see Sexton tried at 12 one more time if Ireland open up a lead in the 2nd half. Sexton at 12 may be considered to start the QF if successful v Italy.
- Earls, on balance, on the wing, but what an impact sub Trimble would be. However, it will be more likely that Kearney will be subbed, moving Earls to FB, again an option for the QF if it goes well in the 2nd half v Italy.

I envy people who post here on their certainty as to O'Gara v Sexton, Earls v Trimble, etc. I have no such certainty, Oonly a view after weighing up what I feel and making my choice. Kidney has earned our respect IMO and whoever he selects I'll probably accept that.

I think Italy is a one-off game, and it will all be up in the air one more time if things go well on Sunday.

Finally, in fairness to the management, things change on tour. Sexton at 12, ROG at 10. Earls over Trimble - these could all evolve over the next few games. Rightly so.

Strangely, I'm relaxed about Sunday. Italy will put it up to us, but this team and management are equal to it, and I'm backing them.

+1, good post in fairness

I hate to admit that I'm kinda hoping Darcy hasn't recovered by Italy match, and that this will force Deccie's hand into action

[The Doc]

All this talk of resting players and giving guys a run out is BS - the team will be picked on the assumption it is a knockout game. The Russian game was the last one where guys will be given a run out. From now on every selection will be the best available. That also means that some positions will be picked based on the opposition and the intended game plan.

For Italy - ROG starts I reckon (speaking as a Leinster supporter). Italy can always turn into the type of game where 3 points could win or lose it and I don't think for this game they will take the risk with Sexton. My concern is with 12 - assuming Darcy is still injured it looks like they are going to go with Wallace - based on the use of subs etc against Russia they seemed to be giving him as much time as possible at 12. As usual he played well against the minnows but a 10-12 of ROG and Wallace will mean a lot of covering work for our backrow with the risk being we essentially concede the gain line to the Italian backrow. Selecting one of them is ok but selecting both is a risk in my view. BOD will not be moved to 12 - we saw yesterday what can happen defensively when the 13 is not running the defensive line as well as we are used to.

Another reason for ROG starting is that I think we need to weather an onslaught from Italy for at least 30 mins - this is their cup final as well. I suspect we will try to take momentum away from them by tactically kicking into their 22 and try to force play down that part of the pitch even if we have to concede possesion to do so. I think we will rely heavily on our defensive unit to prevent them running it back at us - which brings me back to my concern on the 10-12 selection.

For the rest - it will be the same as against Oz. Trimble remains slightly unlucky in my view but certainly you can't say Earls has done anything significantly wrong to warrant dropping him and I think continuity of selection becomes an important factor as we head into a series of cup games.

I hope Court is fit - I really don't fancy Buckley coming on against Italy - with all respect to the qualities of the man it is clear that refs are policing the scrum extremely vigilently and any prop who drops their hand down is getting pinged even if they lift it up again.

[Thomond78]

can't imagine reddan not knowing to do that. it's a fairly common ruling and the actual "goal" (huhhuh) in that position.
Tel, it is fairly commonly tried if the ruck is right in front of the posts. I think it's just not that common that the ruck is in front of the posts. but i lost count a long time ago how many tries i've seen awarded against the post. Sure stupid ol' me knew that was the target when the ruck ended up there. I'd certainly think reddan would have! (i guess).

It's one of the few laws every forward on the planet knows.

[Benji]

Any update on Darcy's injury? Or Poc's.
If both are carrying an injury why are people assuming that its Darcy that wont make it?
I'd say it will be the same team if fit that started against Oz.
If Healy and Ross are on form I cant see the Italians causing us as much trouble at scrum time.
Ireland will have the majority of the crowd and it will be like a home game. Italy have to win the game so pressure also on them.
If we play like we did against Oz we should win handy.
If Darcy is injured play we could have Earls Wallace or McFadden at 12. Id say Deccie would go with Wallace.
I'd go with McFadden

If Sexton is missing his kicks and having a mare put on Rog. Its great to have Rog to come on.

Ireland will w in and win by over 15

[overthehillprop]

Something I hadn't realised was Trimble's try against the Russians was his first international try since scoring against Namibia in RWC 2007.

[Boo-boo]

Any update on Darcy's injury? Or Poc's.
If both are carrying an injury why are people assuming that its Darcy that wont make it?
I'd say it will be the same team if fit that started against Oz.
If Healy and Ross are on form I cant see the Italians causing us as much trouble at scrum time.
Ireland will have the majority of the crowd and it will be like a home game. Italy have to win the game so pressure also on them.
If we play like we did against Oz we should win handy.
If Darcy is injured play we could have Earls Wallace or McFadden at 12. Id say Deccie would go with Wallace.
I'd go with McFadden

If Sexton is missing his kicks and having a mare put on Rog. Its great to have Rog to come on.

Ireland will w in and win by over 15
I thought they were naming the team early on Newstalk this morning but it was a list of those who are receiving treatment for knocks. The list was too long to remember though.

[Wasp]

All this talk of resting players and giving guys a run out is BS - the team will be picked on the assumption it is a knockout game. The Russian game was the last one where guys will be given a run out. From now on every selection will be the best available.


Spot on

I would still expect DK to go with Sexton, having O'Gara available to make a game-changing impact, if necessary.
Gives him 2 shots at winning the match, also gives a stronger defence initially to minimise the momentum that the Italians get at the gain line.

[McCloud]

Any update on Darcy's injury? Or Poc's.
If both are carrying an injury why are people assuming that its Darcy that wont make it?
I'd say it will be the same team if fit that started against Oz.
If Healy and Ross are on form I cant see the Italians causing us as much trouble at scrum time.
Ireland will have the majority of the crowd and it will be like a home game. Italy have to win the game so pressure also on them.
If we play like we did against Oz we should win handy.
If Darcy is injured play we could have Earls Wallace or McFadden at 12. Id say Deccie would go with Wallace.
I'd go with McFadden

If Sexton is missing his kicks and having a mare put on Rog. Its great to have Rog to come on.

Ireland will w in and win by over 15

One of today's articles said that there were no injury concerns from yesterday's game and that D'Arcy and PO'C had been cleared to play this coming weekend.

[Upfront_1979]

I think we will see Ireland win this one through the backs. Our best method of beating Italy, and incidentally how most of the other 6N's teams do it, is to go around them. They are strong from 1-8 but out wide there is space. It's time Gaffney earned his paypacket with some structured moves off scrum and lineout. However I think everything so far has been according to the backroom teams plan. Why? Well:
Against USA we were finding our feet and we did not want to give the Aussie Video analysts anything to work on (it was also horrible weather).
Against Aus we hit them with a perfect storm of forward based play, the backs looked to me like they were told to always take the safe option as Australia are brilliant counterattackers and no one wanted to be the person who undid the hard work of the forwards.
Against Russia we tried a lot more moves but it was a very scratch side but still most of the tries were scored by backs. I'd say we will see a lot more back play against Italy and would expect us to try and put them away in the first 30 minutes.

I honestly think the backroom team have analysed the crap out of our group and had a detailed plan for playing the 2 big games in Australia and Italy.

[the plastic paddy]

I think you are right Upfront and I certainly hope you are. Added bonus if EOS does us the favour he owes us and the yanks are awkward b*stards tomorrow morning/ evening.

[redherring]

We've got to back ourselves and say that our pack will beat the Italian pack. ROG coming off the bench can change the game if needed. I don't think Sexton has really had that kind of impact off the bench. I know his kicking is poor as of late but he is doing no wrong anywhere else. My fear for Sunday and for the rest of the tournament (hopefully) is the lack of creativity in the backs. We showed it against Aus with poor running with ball in hand. Firing it wide as quick as possible isn't always the right option. I've noticed in a few games the massive space teams are leaving between defensive line and FB. I'd like to see Ireland try and exploit this space if possible using Bowe/Earls/Trimble with chips over the top.

[Daithi]

The interesting selection comes at 12 and 13 for me. I hope Kidney 'rests' Darcy and goes for a BOD, Earls combo with Trimbie on the wing- then we'll start sucking diesel in attack... at last!!

[Upfront_1979]

We've got to back ourselves and say that our pack will beat the Italian pack. ROG coming off the bench can change the game if needed. I don't think Sexton has really had that kind of impact off the bench. I know his kicking is poor as of late but he is doing no wrong anywhere else. My fear for Sunday and for the rest of the tournament (hopefully) is the lack of creativity in the backs. We showed it against Aus with poor running with ball in hand. Firing it wide as quick as possible isn't always the right option. I've noticed in a few games the massive space teams are leaving between defensive line and FB. I'd like to see Ireland try and exploit this space if possible using Bowe/Earls/Trimble with chips over the top.

As I said above redherring I don't think our running against Australia was poor as it was a deliberate low risk tactic. We knew their counter attacking is second to none so we went out to minimise any opportunity for them to do so. I'm expecting (hoping) for a much better backline attack in the Italy game. Although as was said already if Clever and co could do a number on parisse and one or two of the italian front row that would be great!

[The Doc]

The interesting selection comes at 12 and 13 for me. I hope Kidney 'rests' Darcy and goes for a BOD, Earls combo with Trimbie on the wing- then we'll start sucking diesel in attack... at last!!

BOD will not be played at 12... makes no sense at all. If he plays he plays at 13. No other candidate runs the defense from 13 as well as he does. Think we have seen that any time other players are stuck in there and whatever about the "future" we are now in a series of knockout games and they will not be trying things out anymore.

Should also be noted - Italy have a 5 day turnaround with significant travel and are playing a US team tomorrow who have rested their first team to focus on this game (win it and they auto qualify for the next WC and jump up the seedings). Tough selection because they will have to treat this game seriusly but if they don't close out the game within 60 mins they are going to be flogging guys 5 days before the Ireland game and have to sit in a plane / bus while they are nursing the knocks.

[ruckall]

BOD will not be played at 12... makes no sense at all. If he plays he plays at 13. No other candidate runs the defense from 13 as well as he does. Think we have seen that any time other players are stuck in there and whatever about the "future" we are now in a series of knockout games and they will not be trying things out anymore.

Should also be noted - Italy have a 5 day turnaround with significant travel and are playing a US team tomorrow who have rested their first team to focus on this game (win it and they auto qualify for the next WC and jump up the seedings). Tough selection because they will have to treat this game seriusly but if they don't close out the game within 60 mins they are going to be flogging guys 5 days before the Ireland game and have to sit in a plane / bus while they are nursing the knocks.

BOD has been missing a lot of tackles lately. Also he does not have the pace to go around anyone or threaten teams at 13. We do need him on the field but not sure he has anything left to give at 13. He could bring a lot to the table at 12 for the remainder of this world cup because he would suck in defenders and thereby create space for other. He's not doing much at 13. I don't see Kidney making that change now wihtout having experimented previously but it is an option that should have been explored. BOD at 12 and McFadden at 13 or Bowe at 13. There is no pace in our backline with d arcy at 12 and BOD at 13. Unless they have been holding back which you'd have to say is unlikely at this point the Irish backline has very little to threaten the better teams. We won't dominate Italy or any remaining opposition up front like we dominated the Aussies.

No doubt the 5 day turnaround is significant but they will rest most of their key players v USA and should still win that one comfortably. They will show up for the Ireland game next Sunday, make no mistake.

[the plastic paddy]

BOD has been missing a lot of tackles lately. Also he does not have the pace to go around anyone or threaten teams at 13. We do need him on the field but not sure he has anything left to give at 13. He could bring a lot to the table at 12 for the remainder of this world cup because he would suck in defenders and thereby create space for other. He's not doing much at 13. I don't see Kidney making that change now wihtout having experimented previously but it is an option that should have been explored. BOD at 12 and McFadden at 13 or Bowe at 13. There is no pace in our backline with d arcy at 12 and BOD at 13. Unless they have been holding back which you'd have to say is unlikely at this point the Irish backline has very little to threaten the better teams. We won't dominate Italy or any remaining opposition up front like we dominated the Aussies.

No doubt the 5 day turnaround is significant but they will rest most of their key players v USA and should still win that one comfortably. They will show up for the Ireland game next Sunday, make no mistake.Italy playing their first team as are septics, who rested their top players v Aussies

[The Doc]

No doubt the 5 day turnaround is significant but they will rest most of their key players v USA and should still win that one comfortably. They will show up for the Ireland game next Sunday, make no mistake.

I agree - I don't doubt Italy will turn up. But I disagree on them resting players - it will be a big mistake if they do. This is game the game the US have been targeting since the groups were announced and bear in mind EOS knows the Italians to a large degree and will have a game plan. I also think EOS has been taking a lot of stick in the US for what he has done in the warm up games but it seems to me that he has been preparing them for a game plan specifically for the Italians. If they (Italy) take this game lightly they will be in for a battle.

While I believe Italy will come out fighting against us, I wonder whether they will have anough in their tank for a full 80 mins high intensity rugby. This is part of why I think ROG should start - we need to weather their initial firestorm and I think the best way to do this is to play territory, keep them going backwards and take the wind out of their sails. In the last 20 mins then turn up the heat maybe.

I actually think a similar plan might be on the cards from the US - I think they will play a 10 man game and try to run them around a bit before unleashing the ball to their wingers - who have pace to burn.

[ruckall]

I agree - I don't doubt Italy will turn up. But I disagree on them resting players - it will be a big mistake if they do. This is game the game the US have been targeting since the groups were announced and bear in mind EOS knows the Italians to a large degree and will have a game plan. I also think EOS has been taking a lot of stick in the US for what he has done in the warm up games but it seems to me that he has been preparing them for a game plan specifically for the Italians. If they (Italy) take this game lightly they will be in for a battle.

While I believe Italy will come out fighting against us, I wonder whether they will have anough in their tank for a full 80 mins high intensity rugby. This is part of why I think ROG should start - we need to weather their initial firestorm and I think the best way to do this is to play territory, keep them going backwards and take the wind out of their sails. In the last 20 mins then turn up the heat maybe.

I actually think a similar plan might be on the cards from the US - I think they will play a 10 man game and try to run them around a bit before unleashing the ball to their wingers - who have pace to burn.

I see a comment from plastic paddy that they are selecting their first IV v USA. Gotta say I'm surprised, this falls nicely for us. The short turnaround plus travel etc will definitely give us an advantage.

I see your point about starting O Gara and playing territory. But I don;t think there would be any decision except for Sexton's poor place kicking form. We need to find some attacking mojo fast and Sexton is by far the better runner. That said if Sexton is leaving 3 pointers behind it could be very costly. This is a tough decision for Kidney. The game will be attritional and we need to convert any and all chances into points.

[lactose intolerant]

I see a comment from plastic paddy that they are selecting their first IV v USA. Gotta say I'm surprised, this falls nicely for us. The short turnaround plus travel etc will definitely give us an advantage.

I see your point about starting O Gara and playing territory. But I don;t think there would be any decision except for Sexton's poor place kicking form. We need to find some attacking mojo fast and Sexton is by far the better runner. That said if Sexton is leaving 3 pointers behind it could be very costly. This is a tough decision for Kidney. The game will be attritional and we need to convert any and all chances into points.

I know the States are pretty poor, but surely if Italy only play with 4, they'll lose? ;)

[Tobyglen]

Sexton at 12, ROG at 10 & keep the rest as OZ match.

[moritz]

Sexton at 12 is a joke and should only be used when necessary !

[Evil Omer]

BOD will not be played at 12... makes no sense at all. If he plays he plays at 13. No other candidate runs the defense from 13 as well as he does. Think we have seen that any time other players are stuck in there and whatever about the "future" we are now in a series of knockout games and they will not be trying things out anymore.

Should also be noted - Italy have a 5 day turnaround with significant travel and are playing a US team tomorrow who have rested their first team to focus on this game (win it and they auto qualify for the next WC and jump up the seedings). Tough selection because they will have to treat this game seriusly but if they don't close out the game within 60 mins they are going to be flogging guys 5 days before the Ireland game and have to sit in a plane / bus while they are nursing the knocks.

But if we're going to get someone else to take over from him what better way for them to learn that than by having him inside to guide them? It's not going to happen any other way and he's not going to last forever.

[Evil Omer]

Sexton at 12 is a joke and should only be used when necessary !

WHat are you basing that on? I've felt Sexton has looked decent enough there to merit a look considering how poor d'Arcy has been most of the past 2 years.

[RED 49]

Kidney will do one of two things IMO , same 15 as against auz will be his first choice , if Darcy is unfit then I really think he will start with sexton at 12 and Rog at 10 . Benefits are better defense at 12 than playing paddy Wallace even though paddy did well on sun, the other plus is rog goal kicking which in a tight game could be crucial .

[Downsouthdukin]

1. Healy2.Best3.Ross4.DOC.5.POC.6Ferris7.SOB8.Heaslip .9.Murray.10.Sexton11.Trimble.12.BOD.13.Earls.14.B owe.15.Kearney

16.Buckley.17.Cronin.18.D.Ryan19.Jennings20.Reddan .21ROG.22.Wallace

[Benji]

You can't play buckley he was manshamed in he scrums

[The Last Stand]

You can't play buckley he was manshamed in he scrums

Not for the first time.

[Late try]

Should also be noted - Italy have a 5 day turnaround with significant travel and are playing a US team tomorrow who have rested their first team to focus on this game (win it and they auto qualify for the next WC and jump up the seedings). Tough selection because they will have to treat this game seriusly but if they don't close out the game within 60 mins they are going to be flogging guys 5 days before the Ireland game and have to sit in a plane / bus while they are nursing the knocks.

I like the sound of that. Imagine if we were in Italy's shoes.

[The Outlaw]

I like the sound of that. Imagine if we were in Italy's shoes.

realistically if we struggle with italy we neednt bother attending the knock-out stages.

[the plastic paddy]

realistically if we struggle with italy we neednt bother attending the knock-out stages.Agreed but we don't need to worry because we are going to win by 40 points with Keith earls scoring a hatrick.

[Tobyglen]

Sexton at 12 is a joke and should only be used when necessary !
Paddy Wallace just isn't strong enough at 12, his tackling is poor at international level.
Sexton has shown he can tackle at the highest level so I would take him over ROG & PW which would be a huge weakness.
Option 2 is BOD & Earls which hasn't been exercised by Kidney. PW at 32 isn't the answer & his international record tells you that.

[3Crowns3Stars]

Dry ball, good surface; Ireland by 20

[sewa]

Sexton at 12 is a joke and should only be used when necessary !
Will the greens ever get anything right?

[joeriddick]

The news that Italy are largely starting their first 15 against the US shows just what level they're at. Being over here, this is the game the Eagles have been targeting as the big one. They'll be horsing the kitchen sink, the dishwasher, the maid, the garden hose and the mothers favourite cutlery into the Italians from the off. The US won't win, but the Italians are threatened enough to start a first team.

This is Italy's level, in reality. They have a big pack but not much else besides. Any time we've had to beat them we've won by 20-30 points (the last game of the 6N when we lost out to France stands out). It'll be the same this time.

[The Last Stand]

Will the greens ever get anything right?

I thought that was Mermoz??

[sewa]

I thought that was Mermoz??Beir Bua is Mermoz. The countries only green thank ****

[Thomond78]

Sexton at 12 is a joke and should only be used when necessary !

D'Arcy's playing like a drain, and scoring more for the opposition than for us.

Sexton isn't a test 10, and is kicking at half the rate we need to be getting if we're to win knock-out games.

We need ROG's kicking and game management, which means we need ROG at 10.

We need a new 12 whose name isn't Paddy like we need salvation.

It's necessary, alright.

[TippRed]

BOD has been missing a lot of tackles lately. Also he does not have the pace to go around anyone or threaten teams at 13. We do need him on the field but not sure he has anything left to give at 13. He could bring a lot to the table at 12 for the remainder of this world cup because he would suck in defenders and thereby create space for other. He's not doing much at 13. I don't see Kidney making that change now wihtout having experimented previously but it is an option that should have been explored. BOD at 12 and McFadden at 13 or Bowe at 13. There is no pace in our backline with d arcy at 12 and BOD at 13. Unless they have been holding back which you'd have to say is unlikely at this point the Irish backline has very little to threaten the better teams. We won't dominate Italy or any remaining opposition up front like we dominated the Aussies.

No doubt the 5 day turnaround is significant but they will rest most of their key players v USA and should still win that one comfortably. They will show up for the Ireland game next Sunday, make no mistake.

I think Italy will start their first team against the US. They need a bonus point win and so will have to go for it against US. They have no chance of a bonus point win against us.

[TippRed]

realistically if we struggle with italy we neednt bother attending the knock-out stages.
I would not entirely agree. Italy have a knack of dragging teams down to their level of a brawl. They have the pack to do it. I would fear the Welsh pack less than Italy.

[TippRed]

You mean like when we beat italy last feb. 13-11 courtesy of O Gara. Italy will fear us. They have nothing to lose. We will be nervy.

[TippRed]

spot on Thomond. ROG has to start.

[The Outlaw]

I would not entirely agree. Italy have a knack of dragging teams down to their level of a brawl. They have the pack to do it. I would fear the Welsh pack less than Italy.

I'd be far more fearful of gethin jenkins, adam jones, warburton and co. Parisse is the italian pack. negate him then you negate thier pack.

[Thomond78]

I'd be far more fearful of gethin jenkins, adam jones, warburton and co. Parisse is the italian pack. negate him then you negate thier pack.

Perugini, Ghiraldini, Castrogiovanni. They'd worry me horribly as well as Sergio. They're the reason he can go off on his merry gallops whenever the humour takes him at the back of that scrum.

Gethin is only just back from injury, Adam the same (and not looking the fittest). Warburton is a different prospect.

[Dowlinz]

Really now jenkins, jones and warburton are so-so players lets not put them on a podium here.

Equally so Italy, we've beaten them 11 out of 11 in the six nations, they've won a measly 6 out of 60 in that competition as well. Lets have some confidence and not be worried about banana skins that won't happen. Italy are a challenge but this is not Aus/Ire in reverse, Italy have never beaten us competitively and regularly get hockeyed by us both internationally and at club level. Its a big deal to them to even come within 2 points of us as they did in the 6N this year.

They are to be respected but I'd have no fear of anything they have.

[Thomond78]

Warburton is sure as hell not so-so: and when the two props are fit, neither are they.

[The Outlaw]

Really now jenkins, jones and warburton are so-so players lets not put them on a podium here.

Equally so Italy, we've beaten them 11 out of 11 in the six nations, they've won a measly 6 out of 60 in that competition as well. Lets have some confidence and not be worried about banana skins that won't happen. Italy are a challenge but this is not Aus/Ire in reverse, Italy have never beaten us competitively and regularly get hockeyed by us both internationally and at club level. Its a big deal to them to even come within 2 points of us as they did in the 6N this year.

They are to be respected but I'd have no fear of anything they have.

Warburton is world class. I think Ross and Healy will handle the italian front row. The only problem is we've no-one after 60 mins to bring on. the italians have a new front row. Its a game that only ireland can get themselves into trouble. if ireland turn up in the right frame of mind- they will win.

[Boo-boo]

Mallet seems confident and happy in his post match interview. ALready getting the digs in with throwing out the Ireland 22- usa 10 and they were 27-10. He also thought he deserved maybe more penalty tries. A dig at curious Irish George? He also said they have a better front row than Ireland. The Italians gave away 7 penalties against the USA.
I am sick to the stomach with nerves already but bring it on Italy. It looks like it is going to be an epic battle.

[Dumptruck]

Mallett just like Castro will be wound so tight by Sunday that they will be spinning like a mad spinny top thingy once let loose.. All you need then is a fomer mayor of Limerick to delay giving back a ball and Mallett will explode.... Ireland will win this game fairly comfortably in the end...

[McCloud]

Mallett: We can demolish Irish frontrowTuesday, September 27, 2011 - 09:57 AM

Italy coach Nick Mallett was in bullish form today ahead of his side’s World Cup clash with Ireland in Dunedin next Sunday.

Speaking in the immediate aftermath of the Azzurri’s four-try bonus point victory over the US Eagles, the South African claimed his team would target Ireland in the forwards particular in the scrum where they demolished America.

“Our main advantage is our scrum and we dominated them (USA) completely,” said Mallett.

“I’m sorry for the spectators it mightn’t have been as open as they would have liked, but you play to your strengths and we have got a very good frontrow and we deserved the penalty try if not a couple more quite frankly.

“Ireland are a great side and played very well against Australia. They dominated Australia physically but we know perfectly well that we’ve got a better frontrow than Ireland, and we’re going to go in there to prove that on Sunday.

“I’m hoping that Castrogiovanni, Leonardo (Ghiraldini) and Salvatore (Perugini) can put us on the front foot, and if you’re on the front foot it’s makes it more difficult for them.”





Read more: http://www.irishexaminer.com/breakingnews/sport/mallett-we-can-demolish-irish-frontrow-522142.html#ixzz1Z8vA3sTn

[rathbaner]

Can't help feeling that Deccie's switch of Mushy to the other side of the scrum V Russia was done for the benefit of Mallett and the Italian front row.

Come into my parlour......


I remember Castro saying publicly that he was going to take Marcus apart a few years back in the 6N and Marcus battered him. Bring it on. In Deccie we trust.

[Random_punter]

Mallet seems confident and happy in his post match interview. ALready getting the digs in with throwing out the Ireland 22- usa 10 and they were 27-10. He also thought he deserved maybe more penalty tries. A dig at curious Irish George? He also said they have a better front row than Ireland. The Italians gave away 7 penalties against the USA.
I am sick to the stomach with nerves already but bring it on Italy. It looks like it is going to be an epic battle.

Mallet should read the rules more carefully then, the penalty try they got was the only one that George could have given them, the rest were too far out (just) to award the try. He should be asking himself why his team could not convert complete dominance of the scrum, in opposition 22, into points.

[The Word Is Born]

I wonder has Kaplan written to Mallett apologising for not being a better ref anytime he might have reffed Ireland/Italy games?

[bugler]

Silly stuff from Mallet. I'm sure our pack and Feek will make hay with this one.

Personally I think the Italian FR is past it's sell by date. The days of having two sets of props any squad would want are gone.

[The Mush]

I think ROG simply has to start to use not only his goal kicking which has been exceptional beside Jonnys effort but his game management is far superior .
On another issue Irelands world cup Is in the balance all counting on the continued fitness of Mike Ross because if he goes then sodo we all because we have absolutely no cover for the man (guys next in line out there not good enough)

[parnell333]

I think ROG simply has to start to use not only his goal kicking which has been exceptional beside Jonnys effort but his game management is far superior .
On another issue Irelands world cup Is in the balance all counting on the continued fitness of Mike Ross because if he goes then sodo we all because we have absolutely no cover for the man (guys next in line out there not good enough)
Isn't that exactly the same situation with Healy ? Court was absolute rubbish in his brief cameo against a destroyed Aussie scrum.

[MrsMcGahan]

We'll thump Italy.

[Thomond78]

We are counting on Healy's fitness much more than Ross.

Anyway, what I took, quickly, from that was: Italy will do anything at all to avoid giving the oppo fast ball. There was always an Italian rolling over. Point it out beforehand, and fast, aggressive rucking will yield penalties.

Italy don't have a long-range threat. Keep them outside your ten, they're pretty much negatived.

Nor do they have a lineout to speak of; double-bank on Parisse, and you can make hay. Their maul tends to truck-and-trailer; but stop it, early, and it goes nowhere.

They have a very good scrum, but if Castro is made scrummage straight, even that American prop could hold him.

Parisse is an effective free runner, but not a close-in-channels runner.

A relatively poor and lateral American defence could make a lot of ground through their centres when they worked an inside ball.

So, detach SOB on a roving commission in defence to track and smash Parisse. Hold our own scrums, and no 50/50 passes; everything should be 55/45 at most, to reduce the number of scrums. Play to the lineout more than the scrum. Hit every ruck hard and fast, clean our ball and get penalties. Put the penalties down in the corner if in our half, kick them if in theirs. Put everything in touch down in their 22, chase hard, and attack the lineouts; make them kick it back and concede territory and touch. Get Ferris and SOB running off inside ball, and then flood those channels looking for the offload when the incision is made.

In essence; play classic Bok/Blue Bull rugby.

This is one where, to be frank, I think the ROG/Sexton 10/12 could really work. Open up that Italian mid-field and there are opportunities.

[the plastic paddy]

We'll thump Italy.+1, didn't notice Healy struggling too much with the hairy one when Leinster played Leicester and the Italian Lineout was hardly fluent this morning. Indoor game will favour us as they don't seem to have much out wide, sticking with my win by 40 points and Earls to score a hatrick.

[The Word Is Born]

Another thing which should be in our favour is the fact that the pitch will be dry. There'll also be no wind so that is to no-one's advantage.

[Evil Omer]

I think people are assuming a lot to think we'll crush them. Firstly we're not firing that well in the backs, regardless of the Russia game we're not going to spank a top tier side off the park. I think T78 has it right that we have to build pressure and points. We know we have the lineout dominance if both were at best so we play to it. We also have to adopt the standard tactic at this level, take the area a team are most boastful about and attack it as hard as you can. Italy are talking scrum all the time. It's not a bluff it is all they really have at the top table. So we need to really go after them on the first few scrums and achieve two things. One get it clear to the ref there's no easy calls for him to make in that area. Two, deflate their egos a bit, take some wind out of them, especially the backs watching their strongest unit getting a hard time. If we can achieve that, deny them the dominance they expect there, then we can see them start to drop off the game a bit, enough to open up daylight and keep chipping away at their confidence. We might be able to open a big gap late on if that works.

The other key psychological one is the lineouts. Whoever is less or more scared to kick the ball off the park will make a big difference. Italy don't have a great kicking game and the more a side is forced to keep the ball in play the worse the kicks will be. It's also tiring for players to be chasing kicks all game from those defensive situations. If we can make them have to kick the ball off the park in tight defensive positions where you know they don't want to it should add that bit more to the pressure. Which is what this game will be about, it won't be pretty and we won't be running in stuff all over the place. It will be about applying more and more pressure until we can be clear of them and kill the game off.

[the plastic paddy]

I think people are assuming a lot to think we'll crush them. Firstly we're not firing that well in the backs, regardless of the Russia game we're not going to spank a top tier side off the park. I think T78 has it right that we have to build pressure and points. We know we have the lineout dominance if both were at best so we play to it. We also have to adopt the standard tactic at this level, take the area a team are most boastful about and attack it as hard as you can. Italy are talking scrum all the time. It's not a bluff it is all they really have at the top table. So we need to really go after them on the first few scrums and achieve two things. One get it clear to the ref there's no easy calls for him to make in that area. Two, deflate their egos a bit, take some wind out of them, especially the backs watching their strongest unit getting a hard time. If we can achieve that, deny them the dominance they expect there, then we can see them start to drop off the game a bit, enough to open up daylight and keep chipping away at their confidence. We might be able to open a big gap late on if that works.

The other key psychological one is the lineouts. Whoever is less or more scared to kick the ball off the park will make a big difference. Italy don't have a great kicking game and the more a side is forced to keep the ball in play the worse the kicks will be. It's also tiring for players to be chasing kicks all game from those defensive situations. If we can make them have to kick the ball off the park in tight defensive positions where you know they don't want to it should add that bit more to the pressure. Which is what this game will be about, it won't be pretty and we won't be running in stuff all over the place. It will be about applying more and more pressure until we can be clear of them and kill the game off.V good analysis, the other target has to be Parisse, legitimately of course but hammer him back a couple of times and it could set about demoralising them. Main thing is to carry on at 100% intensity and focus right from the start. There will be no under estimation from Ireland and I believe a statement will be made that will make everyone sit up and take notice. Gwan Ireland!!

[Thomond78]

I think people are assuming a lot to think we'll crush them. Firstly we're not firing that well in the backs, regardless of the Russia game we're not going to spank a top tier side off the park. I think T78 has it right that we have to build pressure and points. We know we have the lineout dominance if both were at best so we play to it. We also have to adopt the standard tactic at this level, take the area a team are most boastful about and attack it as hard as you can. Italy are talking scrum all the time. It's not a bluff it is all they really have at the top table. So we need to really go after them on the first few scrums and achieve two things. One get it clear to the ref there's no easy calls for him to make in that area. Two, deflate their egos a bit, take some wind out of them, especially the backs watching their strongest unit getting a hard time. If we can achieve that, deny them the dominance they expect there, then we can see them start to drop off the game a bit, enough to open up daylight and keep chipping away at their confidence. We might be able to open a big gap late on if that works.

The other key psychological one is the lineouts. Whoever is less or more scared to kick the ball off the park will make a big difference. Italy don't have a great kicking game and the more a side is forced to keep the ball in play the worse the kicks will be. It's also tiring for players to be chasing kicks all game from those defensive situations. If we can make them have to kick the ball off the park in tight defensive positions where you know they don't want to it should add that bit more to the pressure. Which is what this game will be about, it won't be pretty and we won't be running in stuff all over the place. It will be about applying more and more pressure until we can be clear of them and kill the game off.

Which, with a team on a five-day turn-around, will hurt them even more. They had to work way, waaaay harder than they expected to; when they were on the American line for the best part of ten minutes, even against a seven-man team (and Clancy was wrong, btw; the ball was out at the side, and the Italian flanker brought it back in - penalty to USA, not a binning of an American), that's a lot more hard work than their pack expected to have to do.

I'd agree, throw everything at the first few scrums. Spend the week pointing out - Castro scrummages crooked, and when he had to bind up properly, he was much less effective. Then go for them, for exactly the reasons you identify.

I would definitely start ROG at 10. This is a game for control.

[MrsMcGahan]

I believe we'll thump them because this is an exception to our 'normal' habit of struggling against teams we expect to beat.
Those failures are essentially a failure of concentration.
We won't be ambushed by Italy 'cos the team is desperate to win.
It won't be easy but we have too much for Italy.
I expect ROG to start, we will get ahead on the scoreboard, and Italy will implode later in the game.

[the plastic paddy]

From memory, as I can't find the thread, think one of the TJs on sunday is Poite. Anyone know who the officials are can't find it anywhere.

[fitzy73]

I would definitely start ROG at 10. This is a game for control.

Even more importantly, and given the tactics you've ascribed, is the points ROG will score from kicking in their half.

Given that Deccie knows that, it would be extraordinary if he picked Sexton.

[fitzy73]

Ireland vs Italy
Referee: Jonathan Kaplan (South Africa)
Assistant referees: Bryce Lawrence (New Zealand), Chris Pollock (New Zealand)
Television match official: Shaun Veldsman (South Africa)

[Thomond78]

Same TMO as today. He's Namibian, as it happens, and one of the first people to move to being a specialist TMO.

[redherring]

From memory, as I can't find the thread, think one of the TJs on sunday is Poite. Anyone know who the officials are can't find it anywhere.

Is Kaplan due to referee? I think...

[Benji]

Ireland will beat Italy and win it well. Paraisse is on his own in the forwards once the scrum is controlled. Ireland have Ross and Healy who are playing far better at the moment then when in Rome last year. Italy will probably have only one prop on the bench.
We can watch and take down Paraisse after he drifts out the field and comes back in when he wants to work. We have O'Brien Heaslip and Ferris.
If Ireland concentrate on their scrums lineout and discipline they will win. No 50-50 passes until the game is under control. I'd say he will play sexton and any of our Ten's will be better than theirs. Italy will be tired while some of our lads have had two weeks off.
Unlease hell with our backrow. Ireland shouldnt be afraid of them.

[Cowboy]

A nice early try will settle everyones jitters. Plant Ferris or SOB out in midfield and punch a hole early. Won't be long shortening the italian fuse and then we have them by the balls.

[rathbaner]

I believe we'll thump them because this is an exception to our 'normal' habit of struggling against teams we expect to beat.
Those failures are essentially a failure of concentration.
We won't be ambushed by Italy 'cos the team is desperate to win.
It won't be easy but we have too much for Italy.
I expect ROG to start, we will get ahead on the scoreboard, and Italy will implode later in the game.

I agree with Mrs Mac. Italy cannot surprise us. Kidney knows they are prepared to dog it out in the tight and move it if they have to and that they will fancy themselves against us. This is THE game for Italy and has been for the past two years.

Ireland will be prepared.

[Hugh Jardon]

Ireland will beat Italy and win it well. Paraisse is on his own in the forwards once the scrum is controlled. Ireland have Ross and Healy who are playing far better at the moment then when in Rome last year. Italy will probably have only one prop on the bench.
We can watch and take down Paraisse after he drifts out the field and comes back in when he wants to work. We have O'Brien Heaslip and Ferris.
If Ireland concentrate on their scrums lineout and discipline they will win. No 50-50 passes until the game is under control. I'd say he will play sexton and any of our Ten's will be better than theirs. Italy will be tired while some of our lads have had two weeks off.
Unlease hell with our backrow. Ireland shouldnt be afraid of them.

+1

[padders]

was very encouraged to see the yanks steal a few lineouts especially with the form POC is in . didnt see our game v US , did they steal any off of us ?
as T78 sasy the 5 day turnaround will hurt - that looked like a tired team at the end today

[The Outlaw]

We are counting on Healy's fitness much more than Ross.

Anyway, what I took, quickly, from that was: Italy will do anything at all to avoid giving the oppo fast ball. There was always an Italian rolling over. Point it out beforehand, and fast, aggressive rucking will yield penalties.

Italy don't have a long-range threat. Keep them outside your ten, they're pretty much negatived.

Nor do they have a lineout to speak of; double-bank on Parisse, and you can make hay. Their maul tends to truck-and-trailer; but stop it, early, and it goes nowhere.

They have a very good scrum, but if Castro is made scrummage straight, even that American prop could hold him.

Parisse is an effective free runner, but not a close-in-channels runner.

A relatively poor and lateral American defence could make a lot of ground through their centres when they worked an inside ball.

So, detach SOB on a roving commission in defence to track and smash Parisse. Hold our own scrums, and no 50/50 passes; everything should be 55/45 at most, to reduce the number of scrums. Play to the lineout more than the scrum. Hit every ruck hard and fast, clean our ball and get penalties. Put the penalties down in the corner if in our half, kick them if in theirs. Put everything in touch down in their 22, chase hard, and attack the lineouts; make them kick it back and concede territory and touch. Get Ferris and SOB running off inside ball, and then flood those channels looking for the offload when the incision is made.

In essence; play classic Bok/Blue Bull rugby.

This is one where, to be frank, I think the ROG/Sexton 10/12 could really work. Open up that Italian mid-field and there are opportunities.

Lets be clear its ROG or Sexton. And everything I've heard from the training camp suggests the same. Sexton doesnt play 12 at club level so he isnt an option there at international level. Darcy is fit and will start.

[Arthur Guinness]

Spot on

I would still expect DK to go with Sexton, having O'Gara available to make a game-changing impact, if necessary.
Gives him 2 shots at winning the match, also gives a stronger defence initially to minimise the momentum that the Italians get at the gain line.

ROG is starting,fact. Remember where you heard it first.

[blackwarrior]

Just wondering - if Tommy Bowe has a bothersome hamstring, is Trimble a candidate to start on the right wing? He has played there for Ulster (can't remember Ireland), and he is so sharp at present he'd grab the chance bigtime....

[blackwarrior]

ROG is starting,fact. Remember where you heard it first.
On approximately 50% of rugby forums in this country...:)

[lactose intolerant]

castrito81 (http://twitter.com/#%21/castrito81) martin castro



Some one take the licences plate ..... Of the track run over me..... **** I'm old , I don't use to feel like this the next day

[Arthur Guinness]

On approximately 50% of rugby forums in this country...:)

They're only guessing. I'm not.

[the plastic paddy]

Just wondering - if Tommy Bowe has a bothersome hamstring, is Trimble a candidate to start on the right wing? He has played there for Ulster (can't remember Ireland), and he is so sharp at present he'd grab the chance bigtime....AT would be a cracking stand in/ start on either wing, not much between the three wingers for me, will keep saying it but impressed by AT coming to ROG's aid V ruskies. Think pecking order is TB 1, KE 2 AT 3 but three cracking wingers for me.

[the plastic paddy]

They're only guessing. I'm not.Connor Murray as well? And Boss on the bench? Then I would sleep well. More concerned about 9 than 10.

[B.A.]

So, detach SOB on a roving commission in defence to track and smash Parisse.
Parisse schooled SOB in the 6 nations this year. I remember O'Brien tried one of his trademark carries at Sergio and wound up going backwards faster than he went forwards.

[the plastic paddy]

Parisse schooled SOB in the 6 nations this year. I remember O'Brien tried one of his trademark carries at Sergio and wound up going backwards faster than he went forwards.But as good as Zanni is, is he within a distance of Ferris? DOC will wind up hitting Parisse the most as the game will be surprisingly open with Ireland winning by 40 and Earls scoring a hatrick. Good double by the way if you can find someone to take the bet.

[Ragusa]

How many penalties will our scrum yield ???

This game will come down to penalties seeing how much difficulty Ireland had in getting tries in recent matches excluding V Russia.

[Allez Les Rouges]

There will be a "horses for courses" selection, taking the Italians (and their forwards) especially into account. One or two surprises are in store for this match which may well be reversed the following week (hopefully when we get through). Kidney and his coaching team have hatched their plans to beat the Italians. The O' Gara/Sexton debate is a welcome distraction!

It is not necessarily the team that won against Australia. That team was picked for that match. The Italians are a different proposition. Kidne, as Gert Smal said, has planned for everything!

[ustix]

Gwan Ireland!

[the plastic paddy]

Gwan Ireland!I'm not listening to you, you said Ireland would beat Australia by 7, it was 9 you fool!?!;):D

[99_oK?]

There will be a "horses for courses" selection, taking the Italians (and their forwards) especially into account. One or two surprises are in store for this match which may well be reversed the following week (hopefully when we get through). Kidney and his coaching team have hatched their plans to beat the Italians. The O' Gara/Sexton debate is a welcome distraction!

It is not necessarily the team that won against Australia. That team was picked for that match. The Italians are a different proposition. Kidne, as Gert Smal said, has planned for everything!

Yep, like the Aussie game this one has been in the radar (for both teams..) for some time now. I'd expect nothing less than the kitchen sink (& everything in the scullery too...) to be thrown at us for the first 30-40 mins. In that phase of the game we do not want to ship any injuries, esp. to key players. I'd also like us to take advantage of any 'indiscretions' by our Azzurri friends. Scoreboard must be kept ticking over....

As for the starting XV - after (intiially..) doubting his plan for Oz, I'll go with Deccie on this one. I reckon he'll have a few tweaks form the Oz game..... ;)

[hooke]

really looking forward to encounter...I think we will win, but if we dont then we wont deserve it, Italy are a one trick pony team, a very good trick, but thats it. On mind games I worry not, on a crazy refree decision or two with Kaplan in charge...now there's a thing that makes my palms sweaty.

[Random_punter]

ROG is starting,fact. Remember where you heard it first.

Here are some other facts that agree with your facts.

1.Morne Steyn (South Africa) 17 from 20: 85%
2.Ronan O'Gara (Ireland) 10 from 12: 83%
3.Dimitri Yachvili (France) 7 from 9: 78%
4.Toby Flood (England) 9 from 12: 75%
5.Dan Carter (New Zealand) 8 from 12: 67%
6.Colin Slade (New Zealand) 10 from 15: 67%
7.James Hook (Wales) 6 from 9: 67%
8.James O'Connor (Australia) 5 from 8: 63%
9.Felipe Contepomi (Argentina) 4 from 8: 50%
10.Quade Cooper (Australia) 4 from 8: 50%
11.Jonny Wilkinson (England) 7 from 14: 50%
12.Martin Rodriguez (Argentina) 8 from 17: 47%
13.Jonathan Sexton (Ireland) 5 from 13: 38%

[Aussiedub]

You'd swear reading most peoples comments here that we are playing a team that beats us on a regular basis. We haven't lost to them since 1996 for heavens sake and even after getting screwed in the scrum the last day, butchering a number of tries we still beat them in Rome.

If people think we have to limit our game or players in order to beat Italy who are after a 5 day turnaround then there obviously isn't much faith in either the players or the mgmt.

[No. 16]

You'd swear reading most peoples comments here that we are playing a team that beats us on a regular basis. We haven't lost to them since 1996 for heavens sake...

Where? I was interested to find some, but couldn't

[99_oK?]

Here are some other facts that agree with your facts.

1.Morne Steyn (South Africa) 17 from 20: 85%
2.Ronan O'Gara (Ireland) 10 from 12: 83%
3.Dimitri Yachvili (France) 7 from 9: 78%
4.Toby Flood (England) 9 from 12: 75%
5.Dan Carter (New Zealand) 8 from 12: 67%
6.Colin Slade (New Zealand) 10 from 15: 67%
7.James Hook (Wales) 6 from 9: 67%
8.James O'Connor (Australia) 5 from 8: 63%
9.Felipe Contepomi (Argentina) 4 from 8: 50%
10.Quade Cooper (Australia) 4 from 8: 50%
11.Jonny Wilkinson (England) 7 from 14: 50%
12.Martin Rodriguez (Argentina) 8 from 17: 47%
13.Jonathan Sexton (Ireland) 5 from 13: 38%

Interesting stats there R-p, but you left out the best kicker.....

Morgan Parra (Fra) 9 from 10 (90%) against Canada.
And...
Mirco Bergamasco (It) 5 from 8 (63%) from 2 games
Riccardo Bocchino (It) 4 from 6 (67%) against Russia

Interesting that Parra did that wearing the #9 jersey, while against NZ when he was wearing 10 that #9 (Yach) kicked the placed balls.

---------------------------

The stats in themselves do tell a story but not the whole story. Hook (on 67%) got pilloried in Wales for the loss against SA. You cannot expect to win (as Italy know....) without a kicker. Their (supposedly poor....) kickers are miles better than our Johnny right now. Sexton's return is just not in the league of international kickers at present.

Only one answer to that one........

[99_oK?]

You'd swear reading most peoples comments here that we are playing a team that beats us - up - on a regular basis.....

Italy would have won 2 of our last 3 meets except we met a hospitable ref. and couldn't kick the penalties we conceded.

They have put us under huge pressure in the past and their scrum and ball-contesting is as fierce as ever. They have now learned to kick (compare our and their stats....) and they have also started scoring trys.

The match on Sunday will be a terrific car-crash of a game. Hopefully we'll win; if not a 1 point loss scoring 4 trys will have to do..... :eek:

[Random_punter]

Interesting stats there R-p, but you left out the best kicker.....

Morgan Parra (Fra) 9 from 10 (90%) against Canada.
And...
Mirco Bergamasco (It) 5 from 8 (63%) from 2 games
Riccardo Bocchino (It) 4 from 6 (67%) against Russia

Interesting that Parra did that wearing the #9 jersey, while against NZ when he was wearing 10 that #9 (Yach) kicked the placed balls.

---------------------------

The stats in themselves do tell a story but not the whole story. Hook (on 67%) got pilloried in Wales for the loss against SA. You cannot expect to win (as Italy know....) without a kicker. Their (supposedly poor....) kickers are miles better than our Johnny right now. Sexton's return is just not in the league of international kickers at present.

Only one answer to that one........

I had noticed that Parra was missing alright.
For me, the answer you speak of is to put Sexton at 12, but that's not going to happen.

[Dumptruck]

They're only guessing. I'm not. The man speaketh the truth.

[RichardP]

You'd swear reading most peoples comments here that we are playing a team that beats us on a regular basis. We haven't lost to them since 1996 for heavens sake and even after getting screwed in the scrum the last day, butchering a number of tries we still beat them in Rome.

If people think we have to limit our game or players in order to beat Italy who are after a 5 day turnaround then there obviously isn't much faith in either the players or the mgmt.

In a rare moment of clarity you have hit the nail on the head :eek:. Seriously though, I have to agree 100% on this, especially after seeing just how inept Italy were against the USA - not 'America' as people insist on calling them. Playing against 'America' would involve playing against a continent, not just one country on that continent. It's like playing Germany and calling them 'Europe'
Anyway, the Italians are one-dimensional, good in the scrums, barely adequate in the line-outs, poor in every other facet of play. They defend doggedly and I expect that's what they will do against us; however, it won't be enough, even with our backs having trouble buying a try this season.

[RichardP]

Italy would have won 2 of our last 3 meets except we met a hospitable ref. and couldn't kick the penalties we conceded.<br>
<br>
They have put us under huge pressure in the past and their scrum and ball-contesting is as fierce as ever. They have now learned to kick (compare our and their stats....) and they have also started scoring trys. <br>
<br>
The match on Sunday will be a terrific car-crash of a game. Hopefully we'll win; if not a 1 point loss scoring 4 trys will have to do..... <img src="images/smilies/eek.png" alt="" title="EEK!" smilieid="9" class="inlineimg" border="0"><br>
If you're calling Poite a hospitable ref you have a VERY warped recollection of how he went out of his way to screw Ireland in Rome...and the tries they scored against the USA had the scent of some very friendly refereeing to them. Parisse's try came from a blatant forward pass; the YC against the US wing forward was the absolutely wrong call as someone said earlier, and it gave Italy a huge advantage which they had great difficulty in taking. Their second try followed a knock-on at the base of a ruck by the Italian scrum-half. Let's not make them out to be a good team; they aren't. What they are is a very difficult team to play against unless you have a very good referee - is Kaplan that man?
Besides, Ireland is a much better team now than then - particularly in the front-row.

[99_oK?]

.....especially after seeing just how inept Italy - 2nds - were against the USA .....

I'd suggest you try watching the Oz-Italy game when the first XV were playing. Or even their last 6N game (they defeated France). The talk here is similar to that against Argentina in a previous World Cup. Italy reckon they can beat us and they are not afraid to say it. We have a good pack (i.e. not yet tested...) but a FH seriously struggling for form. They see us as vulnerable in both areas. We'll see.

Italy are a much improved side under Mallet. They came within a whisker of defeating us 6 months ago in Rome (2 missed kicks by them in the last 5 cost 'em). We scored a try apiece, they had kickable chances that they missed, RoG didn't miss his DG attempt. That was the difference - one DG scored against a miss, conversion miss and a few penalty misses. O'Gara came on that day to "snatch victory from the jaws of defeat" (I'm quoting one of our papers...); he was the difference between the teams. (Johnny started for us that day too.)

Italy reckon they have improved (stats indicate that too), and we reckon Sexton will play. He has gone further downhill in form. Whether O'Gara plays is likely to be the difference between who wins and loses (I'm going on form and stats here...). Bookies method.

The unsupported and incredible belief that we are so superior is at best arrogant; at worst it ignores all the pointers to this game from way out.

[Benji]

Ya, Both Healy and Ross are playing far better now than when we played them in Italy. Their main weapon isnt as good now. They will still annoy us and slow things down but we have the players to get the win.

[Ulster's Best]

I believe we will win this game but it is nonsense to talk about resting players for future matches when this is a losable last 16 tie.

[Benji]

I'd only rest players if we were up by 20 points. Ireland need to continue on from Italy. Hopefully part two of the plan is to unlease the backs which were keeping things tidy against Oz. Should be save the back moves for the welsh?

[the plastic paddy]

The unsupported and incredible belief that we are so superior is at best arrogant; at worst it ignores all the pointers to this game from way out.[/QUOTE]No one has been more vociferous than me and I can assure you my positivity is certainly not arrogance; arrogance would be the complete underestimation of the threat Italy bring which is something I refuse to believe the Irish team and management will begin to countenance. Fortunately my opinions hold absolutely no water, but I will admit that I am optimistic that Ireland will beat Ireland well on sunday and I have a feeling that Keith Earls will score a hatrick. I also believe we can win this whole tournament but that doesn't mean I won't be able 'to pi*s straight with fear' on sunday having had a terrible nights sleep.

[Benji]

Read that gain Paddy. Ireland will beat Italy

[McCloud]

Read that gain Paddy. Ireland will beat Italy

That would be my worry Ireland beating Ireland. Massive favorites, the wait of expectation. Can get in the heads of the players.

[born to hula]

Pictures (http://www.inpho.ie/app/WebObjects/INPHO-Shop.woa/wo/7.0.27.23) from training today.

POC, SOB and Fez haven't been taking part, hopefully that's just precautionary. The 2nd team are wearing bibs so you can guess the 1st. Murray starting?

Edit: Actually wrong about Ferris can see him in one of the photos. Still worrying about the other two though

[the plastic paddy]

That would be my worry Ireland beating Ireland. Massive favorites, the wait of expectation. Can get in the heads of the players.It wasn't a freudian slip, I am just a numpty. Ireland will beat Italy by 40 points with Earls scoring a hatrick. Gwan Ireland.

[Ulster's Best]

Pictures (http://www.inpho.ie/app/WebObjects/INPHO-Shop.woa/wo/7.0.27.23) from training today.

POC, SOB and Fez haven't been taking part, hopefully that's just precautionary. The 2nd team are wearing bibs so you can guess the 1st. Murray starting?

Edit: Actually wrong about Ferris can see him in one of the photos. Still worrying about the other two though

O'Connell would be big loss. Pity Tuohy isn't out there - he's going well again in new season and would be bit more dynamic than Cullen alongside DOC. Assuming that DOC/DR wouldn't be playing together.

[RichardP]

I'd suggest you try watching the Oz-Italy game when the first XV were playing. Or even their last 6N game (they defeated France). ....
The is at best arrogant; at worst it ignores all the pointers to this game from way out.
I did not see the Australia v Italy game but a look at the respective team sheets suggests the teams Italy had on the field were very close to being the same on both occasions.
As for the "unsupported and incredible belief that we are so superior.." I beg to differ and I suggest you are using hyperbole to make your point. There is ample evidence to suggest Ireland is a superior team, not many are suggesting "So superior" but definitely superior. It may be incredible to you so I ask you this - do you actually think Italy IS superior to Ireland? If so, why?

[the plastic paddy]

Murray and ROG starting then upping my prediction to 50 points, Earls to score 4 and over take 'spit or swallow' as leading try scorer at RWC, you heard it here first!!

[sewa]

So much complacency here. Hope the team are taking it a lot differently. Knowing DK they will be. In DK we trust:o (tm)sewa

[JohnK]

I'm looking forward to a good game. I think the difference on the day will come down to which team can keep its cool and not give away too many penalties. I'm guessing it'll be a one-score game right up to the last 15 minutes (hopefully with Ireland in front).

[The Last Stand]

Italy are a good team. We cannot underestimate them. We need everyone fit if we are to win. We need to bring the intensity of the Aussie game, and a horses for courses selection will have ROG playing.

I think Mallet's ****e about their scrum will incentivise the front row. the lack of respect from elements of Australia after our win will also motivate. If we bring our A game we will win by more than a score. If we don't or we ship injuries then it could be close.

G'Wan Ireland

[lactose intolerant]

so much fear.....Classic Kidney

[The Outlaw]

Italy are a good team. We cannot underestimate them. We need everyone fit if we are to win. We need to bring the intensity of the Aussie game, and a horses for courses selection will have ROG playing.

I think Mallet's ****e about their scrum will incentivise the front row. the lack of respect from elements of Australia after our win will also motivate. If we bring our A game we will win by more than a score. If we don't or we ship injuries then it could be close.

G'Wan Ireland

its in irelands hands. Sin e

[blackwarrior]

Off The Ball hinting that it's Murray and O'Gara likely to start.... rugby discussion later in the programme

[blackwarrior]

Matt Williams and Liam Toland being way too nice on Sexton..... saying that DK needs to be very careful about the reason they give to Johnny as to why he's being dropped.

I mean, the whole world knows why - so why would DK lie for goodness sake???!!

[Benji]

I'm ok with Rog starting. There should be a fair few penalties and they need to be kicked. Just let's hope court makes the bench. S

Im still confident that we will win well

[joeriddick]

Woodside, Queens is going to be rocking Saturday night. The Italians have been doing a lot of jawing for a crowd that haven't beaten us in 16 years, only come close with a Paddyphobic ref riding us like we were Megan Fox and their only recent claim to fame is helping the French to beat themselves.

Ireland by 20, God help the Italians.

[Hawkeye]

Looking forward to seeing ROG and Murray start. Fully deserved even from a red tinted perspective.

[John Cooper Clarke]

I'm genuinely surprised by this. Will be interesting to see will the selection confirm the info. I reckon ROG and Murray will do a good job btw. Kidney is a quirky fecker too.

[munstershane]

I think this (ROG and Murray starting) is a horses for courses selection.

Expect to see ROG play for territory. The Italian lineout was awful yesterday. We can make hay off this set piece.

I also believe when/if we qualify for the potential Wales match then Sexton will probably start against the Welsh. However Deccie has been known to surprise me before.:D

[Ulster's Best]

Matt Williams and Liam Toland being way too nice on Sexton..... saying that DK needs to be very careful about the reason they give to Johnny as to why he's being dropped.

I mean, the whole world knows why - so why would DK lie for goodness sake???!!

Deccie will do whatever he needs to do the best way he can do it - he has a great track record in this regard so we don't need to worry on that front. Anyway, who cares what Williams thinks. Thank goodness Irish rugby will soon be rid of him properly and hopefully for good.

[Clubman]

Deccie will do whatever he needs to do the best way he can do it - he has a great track record in this regard so we don't need to worry on that front. Anyway, who cares what Williams thinks. Thank goodness Irish rugby will soon be rid of him properly and hopefully for good.

Awww. Poor Matt Williams. Do you not know we all adore him down here UB?

[99_oK?]

......- do you actually think Italy IS superior to Ireland? If so, why?

I honestly don't know.

But I can see that Italy have improved in key areas that was keeping them from winning games at the beginning of the 6N. We scraped through in the first game in that; France (who now seem on a level above us) got beaten by the end of that tournament.

The evidence points to both teams having improved. How much and how we play on the day is the deciding question. In other words I would think Italy may be a tougher nut to crack than Australia (whom we should have beaten by more....). Italy are now well coached (if limited). We are also well coached, but we could come undone by as little as 1 or 2 injuries to key players.

This is game is not a gimme. Italy are well capable of causing an upset to many of the teams ranked above 'em. We do not want to be that team.

[The Word Is Born]

Matt williams

460

[Ulster's Best]

Awww. Poor Matt Williams. Do you not know we all adore him down here UB?

:D

[Blindsider.]

Looking at the Inpho pics, it looks to me like Trimble is starting - IMO he deserves his start. He's been consistently good and hasn't had his rub of the green (no pun intended!).

[Ulster's Best]

Looking at the Inpho pics, it looks to me like Trimble is starting - IMO he deserves his start. He's been consistently good and hasn't had his rub of the green (no pun intended!).

Yeah, he's been very unlucky - not getting in at the start was probably unfair but Earls has subsequently done well in New Zealand.

[blackwarrior]

Looking at the Inpho pics, it looks to me like Trimble is starting - IMO he deserves his start. He's been consistently good and hasn't had his rub of the green (no pun intended!).
I think we're reading far too much into pictures. Trimble wearing a vest at the same time Earls is tracksuited could mean KE was taking no part at the time. Who knows? Photos could be a set-up by DK for all we know.

[The Word Is Born]

Classic Kidney?

[McCloud]

I think we're reading far too much into pictures. Trimble wearing a vest at the same time Earls is tracksuited could mean KE was taking no part at the time. Who knows? Photos could be a set-up by DK for all we know.

Correct KE didn't take part in training.

[Blindsider.]

I think we're reading far too much into pictures. Trimble wearing a vest at the same time Earls is tracksuited could mean KE was taking no part at the time. Who knows? Photos could be a set-up by DK for all we know.

Fair call. It's great to have good wingers available - let's hope they see some ball - esp. as the game is under a roof.

Bring it on!

[joeriddick]

I honestly don't know.

But I can see that Italy have improved in key areas that was keeping them from winning games at the beginning of the 6N. We scraped through in the first game in that; France (who now seem on a level above us) got beaten by the end of that tournament.

The evidence points to both teams having improved. How much and how we play on the day is the deciding question. In other words I would think Italy may be a tougher nut to crack than Australia (whom we should have beaten by more....). Italy are now well coached (if limited). We are also well coached, but we could come undone by as little as 1 or 2 injuries to key players.

This is game is not a gimme. Italy are well capable of causing an upset to many of the teams ranked above 'em. We do not want to be that team.

Jaysus, there's being respectful of the opposition and then there's being so open minded that you won't take your own side in an argument. Italy have nothing outside LHP, THP and No.8 to be concerned about. And out of those three only Parisse and Castro would get on Munsters HEC XV.

Ireland have better all round players, high intensity Test experience and an excellent coach. Italy have flat track bullies, artless plumbers in the backs and a coach/ball boy who's already resorting to chatting up the referee before the game.

[Liam2me]

When is the team expected to be announced?

[McCloud]

Friday.

[Liam2me]

Cheers

[McCloud]

Jaysus, there's being respectful of the opposition and then there's being so open minded that you won't take your own side in an argument. Italy have nothing outside LHP, THP and No.8 to be concerned about. And out of those three only Parisse and Castro would get on Munsters HEC XV.

Ireland have better all round players, high intensity Test experience and an excellent coach. Italy have flat track bullies, artless plumbers in the backs and a coach/ball boy who's already resorting to chatting up the referee before the game.

Indeed but remind us given all the limitations of Italy of the Italy v Ireland score in the six nations? Also the result of Italy v France? As we have seen with the result of the Ire v Oz game every team has at least one big game in them.....

[joeriddick]

Indeed but remind us given all the limitations of Italy of the Italy v Ireland score in the six nations? Also the result of Italy v France? As we have seen with the result of the Ire v Oz game every team has at least one big game in them.....

I'm sure if you tally up the scores you'll find that we're winning. Let me cast your mind back to he last time Ireland played Italy with a lot on the line.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NC37qOOkYfc&feature=youtube_gdata_player

That was in Rome too.

Yep, Italy beat France. Fair play to them. They got France on a bad day (in Rome) and played at the very peak of their ability. It won't happen for them on Sunday because, unlike France back in March, we're not coached by a skittish gob****e and we're not prone to the infamous Gallic shrug.

It might sound like I'm taking Italy lightly but I assure you I'm not. They're a decent team that deserves respect but we have the quality to be beating them and beating them well so it's about time that we bloody did.

[fredom1]

what about buckley instead of Mike Ross?? Ross didnt have a dream game, and buckly is heavier than him and catrogiavnna, mite be an advantage to soft them up? But i think Trimble deserves the nod instead D'arcy and Earls should be noved to the centre, I would actually have Murphy included too as he has play with castro. I cant wait to sob and ferris break the back row apart thou.

[Cadroc]

what about buckley instead of Mike Ross?? Ross didnt have a dream game, and buckly is heavier than him and catrogiavnna, mite be an advantage to soft them up? But i think Trimble deserves the nod instead D'arcy and Earls should be noved to the centre, I would actually have Murphy included too as he has play with castro. I cant wait to sob and ferris break the back row apart thou.

I just wanted to publicly +1 the idea of starting Buckley. He's obviously a much better scrummager than Ross...

http://www.hockeydrunk.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/double_facepalm.jpg

[joeriddick]

what about buckley instead of Mike Ross?? Ross didnt have a dream game, and buckly is heavier than him and catrogiavnna, mite be an advantage to soft them up? But i think Trimble deserves the nod instead D'arcy and Earls should be noved to the centre, I would actually have Murphy included too as he has play with castro. I cant wait to sob and ferris break the back row apart thou.

Nice try, Nick Mallet.

[Upfront_1979]

some worrying talk around this morning about POC.

[Upfront_1979]

what about buckley instead of Mike Ross?? Ross didnt have a dream game, and buckly is heavier than him and catrogiavnna, mite be an advantage to soft them up?

Are You Mental?

[Evil Omer]

freedom1 you lost me at the point where you are comparing Buckley to Castro's weight. Since Buckley won't be in opposition to him it makes no difference. Also, even assuming that you're not making the mistake of thinking TH v TH is how it works, I would ask how much understanding you have of props if you think being big is all it takes. Italy have done very well because they have shorter props who are technically proficient. Against that kind of prop Buckley, average at best anyway, is a beasting waiting to happen because of his height and size and how inflexible that can make him if put into an awkward position. I'd worry playing him anyway but against Italy I wouldn't even consider him. Weight is not going to decide these scrums.

[John Cooper Clarke]

some worrying talk around this morning about POC.

Not looking good for the w/e.

[moritz]

I just heard on RTE radio 1 Sports news that O'Connell still has a slight Hamstring strain and is a worry. I would take the decesion to rest him for the Italy game , play Cullen for the first 55mins (game should suit him) and bring on Ryan for the last 25 mins when it opens up.

[DonL]

Not looking good for the w/e.

Heard that on radio as well. Can't get any news update on the web about it though.

[Boo-boo]

Please tell me it is silly buggering mind games to wind The Mallett even further up?

[MrsMcGahan]

It's classic DK.
NO. Wait.
It's Vintage DK.

[Aussiedub]

I'd suggest you try watching the Oz-Italy game when the first XV were playing. Or even their last 6N game (they defeated France). The talk here is similar to that against Argentina in a previous World Cup. Italy reckon they can beat us and they are not afraid to say it. We have a good pack (i.e. not yet tested...) but a FH seriously struggling for form. They see us as vulnerable in both areas. We'll see.

Italy are a much improved side under Mallet. They came within a whisker of defeating us 6 months ago in Rome (2 missed kicks by them in the last 5 cost 'em). We scored a try apiece, they had kickable chances that they missed, RoG didn't miss his DG attempt. That was the difference - one DG scored against a miss, conversion miss and a few penalty misses. O'Gara came on that day to "snatch victory from the jaws of defeat" (I'm quoting one of our papers...); he was the difference between the teams. (Johnny started for us that day too.)

Italy reckon they have improved (stats indicate that too), and we reckon Sexton will play. He has gone further downhill in form. Whether O'Gara plays is likely to be the difference between who wins and loses (I'm going on form and stats here...). Bookies method.

The unsupported and incredible belief that we are so superior is at best arrogant; at worst it ignores all the pointers to this game from way out.

The Aussie pack stood up pretty well against Italy and once they started moving the ball they took them apart quite easily.....when we played them in Rome we had Ross in his first start, Ferris/Heaslip/Bowe/Kearney missing and with Luke/McFadden and TOL playing...We also botched at least 2 tries and we were 10-6 up when ROG came on to control the game.

[the plastic paddy]

When is the team expected to be announced?One o'clock tomorrow morning I think, I have got me alarm set!?!

[flimwodd]

Just looking through sme posts on leinsterfans,cant do links but the jist of 1 posters reasoning behind sextons abismal kicking is that he feels under pressure with ROG leering over his shoulder from the bench and the solution to sextons woes is to send Rog home,surely this ranks as a best piece of twisted logic yet.

[i_like_cake]

you're wasting your time going over to that site.... Even twisted logic like that never seems to be pulled up by the more genuine posters, which is what you'd expect from any reasonable site.... I haven't been over there in a couple of years now...

Sexton is just not firing on all cylinders at the moment.. simple as that... Pressure from ROG is there, no doubt, but JS can handle pressure, we have all seen that in the past...

[Boo-boo]

Just looking through sme posts on leinsterfans,cant do links but the jist of 1 posters reasoning behind sextons abismal kicking is that he feels under pressure with ROG leering over his shoulder from the bench and the solution to sextons woes is to send Rog home,surely this ranks as a best piece of twisted logic yet.
The fan is a twit. Sexton is better than that but he is having a hard time. Nobody wants a career wobble at the pinnacle of all events but he is and that kind of pressure is only adding to it.

[the plastic paddy]

If rumours prove to be correct and ROG starts on sunday then DK's manmanagement skills are going to need to be spot on; JS is going to be vital if we make it through to the QFs. I hope that ROG has us nice and comfortable by 55 mins and JS can come on and help Keith Earls to the last two of his four tries, with JS kicking all his kicks and building up his confidence. Then the ROG v JS debate can kick off again in earnest!!

[manofmunster]

Personally I'd be inclined to stick with sexpest. Dropping him would be a hammer blow to his confidence. By picking him as a starter in the first two group games we have effectively called him out as the No.1 OH - we can't shop & change that half way through the tournament imho. His overall game is ok - it's just the kicking he's having trouble with.

[Benji]

Personally I'd be inclined to stick with sexpest. Dropping him would be a hammer blow to his confidence. By picking him as a starter in the first two group games we have effectively called him out as the No.1 OH - we can't shop & change that half way through the tournament imho. His overall game is ok - it's just the kicking he's having trouble with.

Im ok with either lad but if we play Sexton he has to make his kicks. We can beat Italy with Rog at 10 but in the knock out games Sexton will be missed. If Sexton had his kicking boots there wouldnt be an issue. I still expect Kidney to pick Sexton at ten tomorrow.

[jeepers]

Loosing games isn't going to do his confidence any good. Better to take that pressure off him. This might be the making of him yet if he can work his way through this.

A pity he wasn't let kick instead of Conters when he was at Leinster even when he was playing inside centre. It meant that Sexton had to go on a crash course for the Heineken Cup final (which he did well), but other than that he hasn't had a sustained amount of real pressure kicks.

[McCloud]

Going to be a big call. But it's up to Sexton to start kicking the points. We cannot afford a return ration of 36%.

[DonL]

I reckon Buckley is going in at 10 and Murphy into the front row as he know how Castro plays

[No. 16]

Personally I'd be inclined to stick with sexpest. Dropping him would be a hammer blow to his confidence. By picking him as a starter in the first two group games we have effectively called him out as the No.1 OH - we can't shop & change that half way through the tournament imho. His overall game is ok - it's just the kicking he's having trouble with.

I'm not saying there aren't some rational arguments to leave Sexy start (but I would go with ROG for this one - and make a call on Sexton after this match or perhaps part way through it) but...

"Dropping him would be a hammer blow to his confidence" So it is wise for a coach to stick with an underperforming player for the sake of the poor fella's confidence? (In a World cup pool match of substantial importance mind!)

"we have effectively called him out as the No.1 OH" - Debatatable. #1 has never always remained number one indefinitely especially at half back. We have 2 competing OH's (strange that phenomenon - when has that happened before? Oh wait...)

"we can't shop & change" - We can certainly shop, but it is a bit late for that at the moment. We can certainly change. We can even "chop" if we want to...

"His overall game is ok" - OK. Perhaps. "OK". But this reminds me of the origin of the term 0-K. "Combat terminology WW1 - "Zero Killed" Report - "0k" - I don't think it is wholly appropriate to report "zero killed". Left quite a few points behind him - Dropped the proverbial ball!

"it's just the kicking he's having trouble with" - Nail. Head. Hammered.

[cornerboy]

Personally I'd be inclined to stick with sexpest. Dropping him would be a hammer blow to his confidence. By picking him as a starter in the first two group games we have effectively called him out as the No.1s OH - we can't shop & change that half way through the tournament imho. His overall game is ok - it's just the kicking he's having trouble with.

I would start JS also. If we are going to use both our OHs its best to start Sexton. ROG will offer something different when he comes on whereas with Johnny being in his current slump he might not be a game changer at 60 mins when a positive influence is required.

Deccie will make the best call.....but not everyone will agree.

[the plastic paddy]

Left field, I know but I have heard a few talk about Murray's kicking. Sexton starts with Murray taking the kicks, you heard it here first!?!

[No. 16]

Now that would ruin his confidence ;-) "You're grand lad - we just won't let you kick anymore." ;-)
(Not saying it's not a worthy idea to field no matter how left...)

[rathbaner]

sThe kicking stats for the stadium are bizarre. It's where Wilko missed 5 on the bounce. They should start JS and tell him he's probably going to miss his kick anyway because of the nature of the the stadium - with a roof but open corners. that should take the pressure off. They can move him to 12 on 50 mins to make room for ROG.

[The Word Is Born]

Sexton needs to man the **** up. He's not supposed to be a delicate little snowflake. He is supposed to be a professional rugby player that has won two HECs, with a MOTM performance in the last one.

ROG is the right call for the Eyetalian game but if we end up playing the Taffs in the qf then more than likely JS would be the right call at 10.

[Daithi]

I would start JS also. If we are going to use both our OHs its best to start Sexton. ROG will offer something different when he comes on whereas with Johnny being in his current slump he might not be a game changer at 60 mins when a positive influence is required.

Deccie will make the best call.....but not everyone will agree.

I think the main issue that has held Deccie back from picking Rog as starting 10 thus far has been that he had opted for Reddan as the 9. He was never going to start 2 physically poor halves to try to defend and/or penetrate opposition lines... Its ok later in a game as the big physicality has normally reduced significantly by then. The fact that DK seems to have both Murray and Rog in looks pretty convincing to me.

With Rog & Murray, Ireland get a more in form and experienced 10 who runs games better, who is place kicking far far better, whose restarts are better, with a 9 who is more physical, looks pure class and offers a serious attacking threat (watch disallowed try v Aus for some evidence of this). As against this they lose Sextons more physical defence and better running attack threat, and they lose Reddan's better experience at the top level and in fairness on evidence of the Aus game, I thought Reddan's overall form is good.

Its a tough, tough call, I could actually see a scenario where they use Rog & CM v Italy and Sexton & Reddan v Wales. it'll be interesting.

p.s. i note that POC has a 'mild' hamstring injury and Bowe a calf injury. With POCs wicked injury record over last 12-18months if POC isn't 100% right I would not be inclined to risk starting him v Italy, as Cullen is a worthy sub, POC could bench and there is only 6 days before a 1/4 final v Wales hopefully. A 100% fit and keen Cullen is probably as good as an 85% POC IMHO. Same for Bowe & Trimble too IMHO.

[Thorns]

Left field, I know but I have heard a few talk about Murray's kicking. Sexton starts with Murray taking the kicks, you heard it here first!?!

Not at all left field, more francais than anything. We all know Trinh-Duc would puke on a kicking tee if he looked at it.

[manofmunster]

[QUOTE=No. 16;965199]I'm not saying there aren't some rational arguments to leave Sexy start (but I would go with ROG for this one - and make a call on Sexton after this match or perhaps part way through it) but...

"Dropping him would be a hammer blow to his confidence" So it is wise for a coach to stick with an underperforming player for the sake of the poor fella's confidence? (In a World cup pool match of substantial importance mind!) I do not believe you can rotate 10s ad-hoc as and when desired - the position is just too important and the guy starting (Sexton) needs to feel sure he has the backing of the management. They (Kidney & co) made a call - they need to stick to it now imho.

"we have effectively called him out as the No.1 OH" - Debatatable. #1 has never always remained number one indefinitely especially at half back. We have 2 competing OH's (strange that phenomenon - when has that happened before? Oh wait...) We have two options - correct. The time to experiment as to which would be the starting 10 was before the RWC - not during. We did that - Sexton took the starting shirt for the first two test and therefore is No 1. Kidney is an excellent man-manager but even he will have his hands full keeping Sextons chin off his chest if we drop him now.

"we can't shop & change" - We can certainly shop, but it is a bit late for that at the moment. We can certainly change. We can even "chop" if we want to... I see what you did there - well done. Very witty fella you are ...

QUOTE]

Sexton on the whole is playing well. I think he's better suited to the type of game we will try to play under a closed roof and has a superior defensive game to ROG. ROG from the bench gives us a nice balance - bring him on to close the game out/rescue the match from the kicking tee if need be.

P.S. - You miss-spelt "Debatable" :p

[joeriddick]

We're blessed at the minute to have two fantastic outhalves with very particular skills suitable for a wide variety of opponents. Sexy probably won't start against Italy, but he shouldn't go bawling in the jacks over it. Ideally he'd come on after 60 with Italy shattered to run them into the ground once kicking high pressure penalties is no longer an issue (hopefully).

ROG v Sexy isn't really the issue it's being blown up to be.

[Aussiedub]

What happens if Sexton gets dropped due to his kicking and then ROG starts missing?

[Dumptruck]

Well if Kidney is going to have a hell of a Job picking Jonny's chin off the ground, he'd better start working on it pretty lively because O'Gara is definitely starting with Conor Murray also starting.

[lactose intolerant]

What happens if Sexton gets dropped due to his kicking and then ROG starts missing?

the term "up sh*t creek without a paddle" springs to mind

[i_like_cake]

What happens if Sexton gets dropped due to his kicking and then ROG starts missing?

:D comedy gold........

Thanks... I needed that after the day I've had......

[joeriddick]

What happens if Sexton gets dropped due to his kicking and then ROG starts missing?

You may now commence panicking.

[galinka]

It will be O'Gara at 10 and Murray at 9 and no O'Connell - you heard it here!

[Jandek]

What happens if Sexton gets dropped due to his kicking and then ROG starts missing?

ROG ain't gonna start missing...and Sexy ain't gonna stop bedwetting...Ireland by 10-20 points...

[lactose intolerant]

What happens if Sexton gets dropped due to his kicking and then ROG starts missing?

anyway, ROG starts missing isn't an issue, ROG continuing to miss (as has unfortunately been the case with Sexton in this WC) would be an issue!!

if ROG continues to miss

1. If the rest of his game is going quite well but place kicking is muck, put Jonny on at 12 with kicking duties (similar to vice versa from the Aus game)

2. If ROG's all-round game is also suffering, Jonny to 10

[bugler]

I'd believe POC is out. Better to have him for the next stage, but our pack tends to lose an awful lot of ferocity without him.

[Grandpasimpson]

Personally I'd be inclined to stick with sexpest.

I'm disappointed on a number of fronts here; first that you would use a term like that to describe anyone, secondly that it hasnt been taken down by a mod and thirdly that nobody else seems to have a problem with it.

[flimwodd]

What happens if Sexton gets dropped due to his kicking and then ROG starts missing?
For some reason i think you would just love that to happen

[No. 16]

[QUOTE=No. 16;965199]I'm not saying there aren't some rational arguments to leave Sexy start (but I would go with ROG for this one - and make a call on Sexton after this match or perhaps part way through it) but...

"Dropping him would be a hammer blow to his confidence" So it is wise for a coach to stick with an underperforming player for the sake of the poor fella's confidence? (In a World cup pool match of substantial importance mind!) I do not believe you can rotate 10s ad-hoc as and when desired - the position is just too important and the guy starting (Sexton) needs to feel sure he has the backing of the management. They (Kidney & co) made a call - they need to stick to it now imho.

"we have effectively called him out as the No.1 OH" - Debatatable. #1 has never always remained number one indefinitely especially at half back. We have 2 competing OH's (strange that phenomenon - when has that happened before? Oh wait...) We have two options - correct. The time to experiment as to which would be the starting 10 was before the RWC - not during. We did that - Sexton took the starting shirt for the first two test and therefore is No 1. Kidney is an excellent man-manager but even he will have his hands full keeping Sextons chin off his chest if we drop him now.

"we can't shop & change" - We can certainly shop, but it is a bit late for that at the moment. We can certainly change. We can even "chop" if we want to... I see what you did there - well done. Very witty fella you are ...


Sexton on the whole is playing well. I think he's better suited to the type of game we will try to play under a closed roof and has a superior defensive game to ROG. ROG from the bench gives us a nice balance - bring him on to close the game out/rescue the match from the kicking tee if need be.

P.S. - You miss-spelt "Debatable" :p


OK. I'll bight. 467

Yeah finger spasm on typing debatatable there....
However, "I do not believe you can rotate 10s ad-hoc as and when desired".
Then you only change the OH when? Never? Or "Ad hoc" - i.e. in response to changed circumstances / unpredictability / or with a specific goal in mind? (pun intended).

Furthermore, I don't think changing your OH between these two would be "experimenting" at this stage! I also think in general that if any professional rugby player being benched is going to have a significant negative impact on confidence "going faward" - he's in the wrong gig!

I'm not saying that your argument about springing ROG from the bench as an impact / game changing / etc. sub is not valid. Sure you could give Sexton another go. If you were DK - you could also have witnessed both in training and made an informed (ad hoc) decision about how the OH fits into the game strategy. (I actually don't see Sexton as a chin on chest type as you say anyway! - bit of rebuilding form and some determination to up his game and he could be slotting them from the touch line at 40m out...)

Aussiedub - If Rog starts missing then...Chop and change

471 467

To Grandpasimpson:
468 on the 469

[The Word Is Born]

What happens if Sexton gets dropped due to his kicking and then ROG starts missing?

Now that's a connundrum. Deccie better play Sexton just in case ROG might have a stinker with the boot. Anyone got a number for the IRFU in New Zealand?

[Evil Omer]

I just heard on RTE radio 1 Sports news that O'Connell still has a slight Hamstring strain and is a worry. I would take the decesion to rest him for the Italy game , play Cullen for the first 55mins (game should suit him) and bring on Ryan for the last 25 mins when it opens up.

to be honest, since Italy don't have much of a lineout, which is the only thing I've seen Cullen appear to be providing I don't know if I'd select him. The times I've seen him get the ball he's either looked like he doesn't know what to do with it or he's gone out of his way to find someone to run into, to the point of going back to the crowd. My only concern with Ryan/DOC partnership is lineouts but then like I say it's not like Italy are strong there.

[aupa les rouges]

I'm disappointed on a number of fronts here; first that you would use a term like that to describe anyone, secondly that it hasnt been taken down by a mod and thirdly that nobody else seems to have a problem with it.

Fair point GPS. Basic respect for all players (except cheats).

[Kavy]

It will be O'Gara at 10 and Murray at 9 and no O'Connell - you heard it here!

After the early team announcement came courtesy of leinsterfans posters last time the backlash was inevitable.

[Ulster's Best]

ROG ain't gonna start missing...and Sexy ain't gonna stop bedwetting...Ireland by 10-20 points...

You better start bed-wetting - Dave Ryan's coming to get you!!!!

[The Spoofer]

Sexton needs to man the **** up. He's not supposed to be a delicate little snowflake. He is supposed to be a professional rugby player that has won two HECs, with a MOTM performance in the last one.

ROG is the right call for the Eyetalian game but if we end up playing the Taffs in the qf then more than likely JS would be the right call at 10.

Yeah, you are spot on. Next we will see him on telly whinging and going on about "me, me , me". FFS, the ladyboy.

[Ulster's Best]

Yeah, you are spot on. Next we will see him on telly whinging and going on about "me, me , me". FFS, the ladyboy.

Shhh!! You're making him sound like ROG!! :D

[ustix]

I'm not listening to you, you said Ireland would beat Australia by 7, it was 9 you fool!?!;):D
I believe I said 6, which would have been the case only for Horwill's horrific decision not to take three points with a few minutes left. I also stated a few moons back that The Earl of Thomond would give Felix a RWC winning pass to split Nonnu and Smith and score beneath the posts.
Now that's not going to happen now, is it?

[joeriddick]

Shhh!! You're making him sound like ROG!! :D

I think that's what he was alluding to, yeah. He needs you committing joke murder like a turd needs a cowboy hat.

[the plastic paddy]

I believe I said 6, which would have been the case only for Horwill's horrific decision not to take three points with a few minutes left. I also stated a few moons back that The Earl of Thomond would give Felix a RWC winning pass to split Nonnu and Smith and score beneath the posts.
Now that's not going to happen now, is it?Sadly not ustix, but I am tipping the earl to score 4 tries on sunday, what do ya think? He could still make that pass to Kearney, no that really is fecking stupid I apologise:)

[Ulster's Best]

I think that's what he was alluding to, yeah. He needs you committing joke murder like a turd needs a cowboy hat.

Just making it clear for thickos like yourself.

[joeriddick]

I've missed you, UB.

[ustix]

Sadly not ustix, but I am tipping the earl to score 4 tries on sunday, what do ya think? He could still make that pass to Kearney, no that really is fecking stupid I apologise:)
Unfortunately paddy, I cannot see The Earl scoring four times.

[The Word Is Born]

Yeah, you are spot on. Next we will see him on telly whinging and going on about "me, me , me". FFS, the ladyboy.

My spidey senses were tingling until UB went all Leeroy Jenkins.

[the plastic paddy]

Unfortunately paddy, I cannot see The Earl scoring four times.With the rumours about POC you could be right, revise down to Ireland by 35 with the Earl scoring 3. Gwan Ireland!!