Originally posted by Waiboy
It's always different given time. For starters, Ireland will likely have the better of set piece in NZ, plus we always start the season off poorly. Bear in mind a lot of the ABs are only now getting back into playing post their RWC hiatus. We've got a new head coach and coaching team (sure Hansen's been part of the setup a long time, but it's still going to unsettle the team to some degree). Plus Ireland have put up some very strong performances in the 6N, notably against our bogey side (Les Cheating Bleus). Not to mention a win at Eden Park in the not too distant past.
Having said all that, the old chestnut applies, and that is outside of England and France, NZ hasn't lost a test to a team from the 6N since Wales in 1953. Any victory by Ireland on their tour goes into the "history making" list, and would lead to a nationally televised flaying of the ABs team and coaching staff, RWC winners 2011 or not.
I don't know Waiboy.I honestly don't see a slight transition in NZ rugby having much effect on how Ireland will perform over there.Yes some of these things might help us slightly but i really feel we are in for at least one hiding and possibly more.Hopefully the latter end of the Heiniken Cup can re-install some much needed belief and confidence in the Irish players.
The other thing is i don't see the point in us putting out our best team when clearly some of these players won't be around for the next World Cup.Yes that means putting some of the younger players in at the deep end but have to start thinking long term not that our so called "golden generation" are starting to fizzle out.
Just read too that NZ have no interest in playing Scotland and Italy in friendlies either and that if teams decide to tour NZ then a 3 match series is a must as every year they make their way up North and fill the coffers of our rugby unions.Very understandable i think and there is no doubt that just like Brazil in football ye are the most lucrative side in the game for teams to play at home and only fair that a few rules come into place when teams want to venture down South.Anyway hopefully we can put up a reasonable showing and keep the crowds coming for the 2nd and 3rd test.The 2nd one is in Christchurch anyway so that will be a capacity crowd anyway and with so many Irish down your neck of the woods these days hopefully a good spectacle will be on view.
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