Odds in Oz – Ireland V France
Paddy Power joins us to give his views on Ireland V France, another massive clash for Ireland in this World Cup. Click MORE for info.
Ireland v France
On Sunday, alarm clocks will be ringing all over France and Ireland in advance of the meeting of the two nations in the Rugby World Cup. France are hot favourites at 1-4, so Ireland are really tempting at 11-4.
France are favourite because of their impressive wins in the group stages, but it’s worth remembering that Scotland were the toughest team they faced. Where will the French tries come from? French Captain Fabien Galthie, Yannick Jauzion (who scored three tries against Fiji) or the formidable Imanol Harinordoquy. Also watch out for the inspirational Tony Marsh who was given the all clear from cancer earlier this year. There is no doubt the French have quality, but is there more to them as a team than just Le Hype?
Ireland came through a much tougher group, survived the Argentineans and were disappointed not to beat the Australians. They lost, yes, but it would have been a lot harder for Ireland if they’d been thrashed by the Aussies. We are all wondering if they have expended too much energy in their games. How fresh will they be on Sunday?
Eddie O’ Sullivan has made changes, some forced, some considered. Dennis Hickie will be greatly missed, Anthony Foley is out and Victor Costello in, O’ Gara will start, but Humphreys is likely to play a part. Ireland will look to O’ Driscoll as their key man after his return to form on Saturday.
The handicap is Ireland plus 12 points. It is hard to resist such a bet. Let’s leave Eddie O’ Sullivan with the last word: Our Plan is not to be going home on Monday.