So, apparently, there’s been a little rumour floating around that Irish rugby is on the decline? Well, if that’s the case, then we’d certainly love to see the quality of play when it’s on the up.
Recently, Ireland captain Dan Sheehan dismissed reports of Irish rugby being on the decline as ‘nonsense’ and instead insisted that he had full confidence in his teammates. Following a string of crushing defeats to the likes of South Africa, France, and New Zealand, Ireland really had to be on their A-game in Friday night’s Nations Championship game against a dangerous Argentina side. Well, they most certainly were.
Following a hugely impressive display, Ireland currently sit top of the Northern Hemisphere table, and could potentially go all the way. But what do the bookmakers think? Let’s take a look at Ireland’s Nations Championship odds as bookmakers pick their favourites.
Ireland’s Nations Championship Odds
Cutting straight to the chase, if you feel that Ireland have what it takes to lift the Nations Championship trophy and defeat the likes of South Africa, France, and New Zealand, what sort of odds can you expect?
Well, following Friday night’s performance, Ireland suddenly look like a much bigger threat than they did back in the summer. This is reflected in the odds. BOYLE Sports will give you 16/1 odds whereas Ladbrokes are offering odds of 14/1.
Whilst these are indeed generous odds, it’s South Africa who are the current favourites, and arguably Ireland’s biggest threat. They’re currently 11/10 with both Ladbrokes and BOYLE Sports.
Keenan Shines Against Los Pumas
Going into the home leg game in Dublin against Argentina, fans were asking a lot of questions about Ireland and their recent performances.
Most recently, they were on the receiving end of a 40 – 21 thrashing at the hands of New Zealand in Auckland. This was a must-win game, especially with a bonus point up for grabs. Fortunately, a returning Hugo Keenan was on the field.
Keenan was on fire, scoring a hat-trick of tries and really getting stuck in. He looked as fit as he ever has, which is hardly surprising considering, up until recently, he held the world record for the Bronco test, with an incredibly 4 minutes and 11 seconds.
Andy Farrell can also take solace in the fact that captain Dan Sheehan was able to cross, along with Sam Prendergast and Ronan Kelleher. The game finished 42 – 12 in Ireland’s favour.
Ireland Need to be Ruthless
Going into Friday’s game, Ireland were in a tough spot. Despite moments of brilliance, they lacked the clinical and ruthless style of play that they’d demonstrated previously. If they were to challenge Australia for the World Cup next year, they needed to get that back. Last night will certainly help with that.
Despite such a decisive victory, however, Farrell was not 100% satisfied. Although they edged possession and commanded 59% territory, in Farrell’s own words Ireland ‘missed a chance to be ruthless’.
There was also an injury scare for captain Dan Sheehan when he failed a head injury assessment in the first half. Fortunately, he is said to be okay. The loss of a name such as Sheehan, Keenan, or Prendergast will be devastating, so keeping his star players fit and healthy will be vital.
If Ireland can be more ruthless and more clinical, there’s no reason why they can’t challenge for the championship.