It’s difficult to be too critical of the Ireland side after a five try romp away from home but in all honesty this match raised more questions than it answered.
Ireland struggled against a committed Italian side for 47 minutes and showed very little cohesion in attck throughout the game. Thomas O’Leary struggled with his service throught the game and, by association, O’Gara had one of his least effective performances with his kicking from hand. Despite having better individual players in most positions Ireland struggled to make their class count.
The half back partnership is a concern and is certainly an area which will be targeted by stronger teams and it is in this area where Kidney is going to have to apply his undoubted coaching skills. Realistic alternatives need to be examined sooner rather than later, but will Kidney make the necessary changes while he is chasing the Six Nations? His bench selections for the next two games should be particularly interesting.
As for the Ulster boys it was a bit of a mixed bag.
Paddy can count himself very unfortunate to get injured once again and in all honesty it looks as if he’s going to struggle to make an impact this Six Nations. If Kidney does decide to stick with him it will speak volumes for the type of rugby he wants to play but my feeling is he’ll take the easy option and revert to D’Arcy.
Ferris had another great game and his hard work round the fringes took it’s toll on the Italian pack. This added to his superb break and off-load should bolt his place down for the remainder of the series in what is becoming a very impressive back row.
Bowe’s searing break and try was pretty much what we’ve come to expect from the big man but he still needs to work on his positional play in this kicking dominated modern game. He just doesn’t seem to be getting the best out of his undoubted abilities in his counter attacking play.
The selection of Flannery in front of Best continues to amaze me, particulary against a big pack like Italy. I would always play Best for the first 60 then bring on the Flan for the last 20 where his style of open play would be better suited. Best brings so much more to the scrum and the breakdown that he should be starting every game.
Finally congratualtions to big Tom on his debut. Looked comfortable enough in the scrums and showed up well around the pitch. Let’s hope he gets another chance soon.
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