Jackman: Rassie's 7:1 bench split should be encouraged
After a weekend where Fiji beat England, France thrashed Australia and Ireland were given a real scare by Samoa, it would take something big to dominate this week's rugby discourse.
Samoa Sport News
RTÉ Rugby podcast: Irish squad reaction, Boks' big bench and Fiji's famous win
Neil Treacy is joined by Bernard Jackman and Mick Kearney on this week's RTÉ Rugby podcast.
Samoa's Andrew Goodman backs Ireland to 'go really deep' in World Cup
Ireland are genuine contenders to lift the Rugby World Cup and will "go really deep" in the competition, according to Samoa and Leinster assistant coach Andrew Goodman. New Zealander Goodman watched from the sidelines on Saturday evening in Bayonne as Ireland stretched their winning run to 13 matches with a narrow 17-13 success over Samoa. The 40-year-old former Leinster player, who has been working with the Pacific island nation since 2021, has connections with many of Ireland's squad having returned to the Dublin-based province last year to assist Leo Cullen. Asked if Ireland are serious challengers for the Webb Ellis Cup, he replied: "Definitely, they've been playing outstanding footy.
Conor Murray: Rugby World Cup is a different animal for in-form Ireland
Conor Murray acknowledges Ireland's record-breaking winning run and impressive achievements under Andy Farrell will count for very little at the Rugby World Cup.
Dan Sheehan 'delighted with great week in rehab' as World Cup looms
Dan Sheehan admits he was concerned about his World Cup prospects when limping off against England but says he can't wait to get going in France.
Physicality of modern game means rotation is everything
After a bruising encounter against Samoa in Bayonne, Andy Farrell was finally able to announce his 33-man World Cup squad.
Conor Murray: Rugby World Cup is a different animal for in-form Ireland
Conor Murray acknowledges Ireland’s record-breaking winning run and impressive achievements under Andy Farrell will count for very little at the Rugby World Cup.
Andy Farrell says he sought to stop Keith Earls from retiring last year
Ireland boss Andy Farrell has revealed he persuaded World Cup-bound wing Keith Earls not to retire.