Scotland have an ‘unbelievable opportunity’ to knock over Ireland
Scotland players celebrate scoring against Romania during the Rugby World Cup pool B match.
Defence coach Steve Tandy is confident that Scotland can end their losing streak against Ireland with a Rugby World Cup quarter-final spot up for grabs.
It is nip and tuck in Pool B of the tournament as Ireland, South Africa and Scotland could all progress into the final eight of the World Cup.
Knocking over Ireland
For the Scots, they would need to defeat Ireland, scoring four tries, if they are to reach the quarter-finals. However, they have not beaten Ireland since 2017.
“Over the last few years, I know we haven’t knocked over Ireland [Scotland last defeated Ireland in 2017], but there is always that first time, and it would be special to do it on the weekend,” Tandy said after the 84-0 victory over Romania.
“We focus on ourselves; we have an unbelievable opportunity in the World Cup to play Ireland.
“It will be an amazing atmosphere, and the boys have put in some good performances in France. So we are super excited about the opportunity and getting out there on Saturday night.”
Scotland would also need to beat Ireland by more than seven points, something that Tandy believes isn’t a major factor in their thinking.
“It’s minor; you have to concentrate on your side,” he said.
“I don’t think you can think too far ahead too early. They are an outstanding team, but it’s about focusing on what we do and the later the game goes, you’ll obviously be aware of things, of what the permutations are. But ultimately, the focus will be winning the game.”
Ireland’s run of victories
Tandy lauded Ireland’s recent run of performances, with Andy Farrell’s side winning 15 straight games.
“They’re not a bad team, in fairness,” Tandy said with a smile.
“We have massive respect for what they do and what they have done; they are on an amazing run and have great players. They are well-coached, but we believe in ourselves.
“We know it is going to be a real tough challenge against Ireland, but it’s the World Cup. They are amazing, big games, and this is where you need to be. If you’re going to win a World Cup, then you have got to knock over the big teams.
“They are really efficient at what they do. They don’t make many unforced errors. Obviously, they’ve been together a while now, the coaching staff.
“They are a well-oiled machine around how they play. It’s a clear identity, but there is always some variety that comes with it as well, [they’re a] very experienced group who ultimately know how they want to play.”
