Eddie O'Sullivan took a look at sun-kissed Murrayfield this afternoon and forecast a points feast in tomorrow's opening RBS 6 Nations Championship match against Scotland.
O'Sullivan predicts open, running rugby
Eddie O'Sullivan took a look at sun-kissed Murrayfield this afternoon and forecast a points feast in tomorrow's opening RBS 6 Nations Championship match against Scotland.
Because of frost, Ireland have been unable to train on grass since they arrived in Edinburgh yesterday but the pitch was in perfect condition when they arrived at the home of the Scottish RFU for a final press conference.
And O'Sullivan was sufficiently encouraged by a promising weather forecast to predict a high-scoring start to a fixture dominated by the Scots since 1985.
"Walking around in the rain in the autumn didn't suit us, even though we got good results," said O'Sullivan. "And I know Scotland prefer it dry as well.
"It could be a fast open game which would make it very interesting. It will suit both teams. There could be a lot of points but I think it will be close."
Ireland, buoyed by a win over Australia in the autumn, go into the match as clear favourites but, having lost their last nine matches at Murrayfield, O'Sullivan is not expecting easy pickings.
"I'd settle for a half-point win," he said. "A win is a win up here. It's a big game and we're trying to turn back history."
If the Ireland pack can achieve parity with the Scottish eight, they have the backs to run away with the match but O'Sullivan is not under-estimating the capabilities of the home backs and discounts the theory that Gordon Ross is purely a kicking fly-half.
"I wouldn't under-estimate the Scottish backs in any way," he said. "I think we have got good backs but they have a bit of experience there as well and a few guys who have nothing to lose.
"Ross has a good mix to his game. I know he's known more as a kicking fly-half but I know as well that he's willing to run with the ball if the opportunity arises.
"He can distribute as well so he's got a good balance to his game. I'm expecting a good mix to the Scottish game."
Meanwhile, the Ireland Under-21s drew first blood against the Scots when the teams met in Dundee this afternoon. A try from UCC's Richard Lane was converted by out-half David McAllister and the Terenure youngster added two penalties for a 13-5 win.