Stephen Ferris previews Ireland’s second Pool B game against Tonga
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Ireland started their 2023 Rugby World Cup campaign with a crushing 82-8 victory over Romania. Ladbrokes ambassador Stephen Ferris spoke to us about Saturday’s second group game against Tonga in Nantes.
Most of us predicted a cricket score last weekend against Romania and it was exactly that. Ireland ran in 12 tries with Johnny Sexton, Bundee Aki, Tadhg Beirne and Peter O’Mahony all scoring a brace. It was all too easy for Ireland in hot and steamy Bordeaux, but more importantly, there were no injuries and Andy Farrell has a full deck to pick from for his next game against Tonga.
It’s an 8pm kick-off at the 35,000-capacity Stade de la Beaujoire where Nantes play their football matches. It’s sure to be an intimate atmosphere as there isn’t a bad seat in the house. With a slick playing surface and rain forecasted, we might not see a polished Irish performance like we witnessed last weekend.
Tonga have unbelievable talent in their ranks and are in town to cause an upset. They are a formidable force on the field, characterised by their imposing stature and uncompromising style of play. These athletes are known for their raw power, bone-crunching tackles,and relentless physicality. Tonga usually leave opponents battered and bruised and there is no doubt this game will provide a stern test for Ireland.
With several changes expected for Ireland, this provides opportunity. You only own the jersey for the minutes you play in it, then it passes on to the next person. You must make every second count. The players selected will face Tonga’s traditional war dance called the Sipi Tau. This is a symbol of their strength and determination and is performed before kick-off.
Ireland are currently 36-point favourites on the handicap. Why so many points considering Tonga have players like Charles Piutau, Pita Ahki and Vaea Fifita? It’s because Ireland are absolutely ruthless and will turn to their set-piece dominance at every given opportunity. Expect to see Ireland’s maul in full flow as this is a weapon that will be needed in the following week against South Africa. Tonga must keep 15 players on the pitch and their discipline must be flawless.
Prediction: Last time out in the rain, Ireland struggled against Samoa and could do so again. Tonga +36 is hard to look past.
All odds and markets correct as of date of publication
