Coach Andy Farrell says the energy in his current Ireland squad is “huge” after their historic Six Nations win over England at the Allianz Stadium.
Ireland scored five tries in a record 42-21 victory over their old rivals that reignited their title ambitions and provided a strong response to recent criticism.
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After losing to New Zealand and South Africa in November, Ireland opened the Six Nations with a humiliating 36-14 defeat by France, but after defeating Italy in Dublin, they ripped through England with a statement.
“I think the strength of any group should be stronger than any individual’s belief in what they think they can achieve,” said Farrell.
“That is the right team. So, the strength in the squad is great. I believe that.
“And you guys can say it’s getting old, or we’re missing people and they’re injured and all that kind of stuff, but that doesn’t matter as long as we keep pushing forward and making ourselves proud.”
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When Farrell was put through a tough time last year ahead of the England game, he used the CVs of Ireland legends Brian O’Driscoll, Johnny Sexton and Paul O’Connell as a reminder of why expectations need to be managed.
“I was thinking this morning, probably the three most respected players I know in Irish rugby, maybe Johnny Sexton, Drico or Paulie…I think Drico played 15 years and won two (Six Nations titles). I think Paulie played 14 years and won three. Johnny played 13 years in this tournament and won four.
“So look at all the ones who haven’t won because the team is always changing and learning.
“And, to be honest, that’s why I don’t care if we win or lose, it’s just that we’ve just grown as a team. Because we know what we’re trying to achieve as a team.
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“And it doesn’t always translate, because people have to experience the ups and downs of international rugby to learn and grow from it, so that’s the best part of it today.”
Andy Farrell and his coaches praised Ireland’s efforts during Saturday’s impressive win at the Allianz Stadium [Getty Images]
Farrell was also pleased with the way his veteran Test players have stepped up after questions about their form as they added to headline displays from Stuart McCloskey and Rob Baloucoune.
“Caelan [Doris] he’s back to his best, Joe McCarthy was outstanding,” commented Farrell, who also praised the outstanding player Jamison Gibson-Park.
“Josh [van der Flier] he was great in that first half, wasn’t he? You know, with his running line and stuff like that.
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“They know they have a responsibility. We said before the game, the players of big games come and play big teams.
“They set good examples, but for the guys I just mentioned, for Rob Baloucoune to come in here and do that, you know he’s on a good day when he gets a poach, a turnover ball… just his belief in taking people on, and Stu’s dominance at that kind of level, it was a joy to see.”
With McCloskey and Baloucoune settled on the Test field, experienced players regaining form and the likes of Mack Hansen, Hugo Keenan and Andrew Porter yet to return from injury, Farrell’s side look suddenly in good shape 18 months out from the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.
“That’s the point. That’s the best part,” he said.
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“We know that and we have to take the baton from the road. I think a win like this gets people back on the board a little bit.
“As long as we know where we’re going.”
Ireland host winless Wales on 6 March (20:10 GMT) before wrapping up the campaign against fellow Triple Crown chasers Scotland in Dublin on 14 March (14:10).
