Ireland v. Wales - A Preview
By Gerry O’Sullivan. Saturday, 25 February 2006.
Six Nations 2006 is developing into the most open contest in years. As I write, five of the six teams are still in with a shout of the championship. There will be no Grand Slam winner this year, as England’s loss to Scotland this evening means that every team has lost at least one game. Ireland are the only team left who can win the Triple Crown, as we have yet to play the three British nations, and Wales have lost to England, who in turn have lost to Scotland, who in turn have lost to Wales.
Tomorrow’s game is very hard to predict. Wales have been through the wringer in the last couple of weeks, with the departure of their coach Mike Ruddock, and the loss of their influential captain Gareth Thomas. I’m really sorry that Thomas will play no further part in the Six Nations, as he is a great player. Also missing tomorrow is the other Welsh sharpshooter Shane Williams, which leaves their attack somewhat blunted.
We, of course, are missing Paul O’Connell, our most influential forward. This could mean that there is a lack of leadership in the pack, particularly now that Anthony Foley seems to be out of the frame altogether. Who else is there? Easterby? He has captained the side a few times and he’s captain of Llanelli, but I don’t think he has the sheer presence of O’Connell in the front eight. This could be crucial, as in order to get the upper hand in the match, the Irish forwards will need to boss their Welsh counterparts. If the Irish pack can come up with a decent supply of quality ball, then our backs should be able to finish the job. Particularly if they show the sort of flair that was on display during the second half of the French match. Having Trimble, who is still relatively unknown, on the wing could make the difference.
Also, there’s the maul. O’Connell’s absence here could be telling, as it is he who is always at the centre of the maul, whether for Ireland or Munster. But they need to get it going early in the match to see if it’s an option. The scrum should hold up better this time.
So overall, I’m cautiously optimistic. As long as the Irish game plan isn’t too rigid, and they can stifle the Welsh half-backs, then a win shouldn’t be beyond them.