No better time to check the temperature. The state of Irish rugby – and the sport itself – is on an upward curve after an enormously entertaining Six Nations. Andy Farrell gave a good line last weekend about there being a story in every position. I’d go further and say there are three, even four … Read more
Ireland’s improving scrum has its day against Scotland Ireland’s scrum has been under pressure throughout the Six Nations Championship, conceding 15 penalties and plenty of free kicks. The absence of three frontline loosehead props through injury was a factor. It would have been an area that Scotland targeted ahead of the Triple Crown game. So, … Read more
James Lowe is likely to miss out on the remainder of Ireland’s Six Nations campaign after picking up a groin injury during Saturday’s 42-21 win over England at Twickenham. In a squad update on Monday, the IRFU said the Leinster winger will continue to be monitored. However, the likelihood is that he will be ruled … Read more
On Monday the former Wales outhalf Dan Biggar saw Ireland’s problems through the prism of Wales’ problems. He had a smile on his face. Irish headaches were relative. Ireland were still afloat while the Wales ship was on the rocks. There were issues against France, he said, but the Irish system was intact. Ireland can … Read more
The obvious place to start is half-time, inside the Ireland changing room underneath a raucous Stade de France. The score is 22-0. The players come in, drenched to the bone. They need to catch their breath. Slow the heart rates right down. Drink some fluids. Take a moment to settle. The specialist coaches will speak … Read more
Ireland captain Caelan Doris is now a huge doubt for the British and Irish Lions tour this summer following the confirmation he is set to undergo surgery on an injury picked up against Northampton Saints. The Ballina-native was all but cemented to go on the tour and was also one of the leading contenders for the … Read more
Leinster 47 Glasgow 0 72 mins: Leinster once again tackle the 9 within a metre of the ruck, falling foul of the new law. McGrath the culprit this time. Glasgow go to the corner. 70 mins: O’Brien puts in a good kick off turnover ball to find touch inside the Glasgow half. Every time Glasgow … Read more