Johnny Watterson’s player ratings are in – there are a sprinkling of fives and sevens, so a decidedly mixed bag of a day for Andy Farrell’s charges.
[ Irish player ratings as Stuart McCloskey shinesOpens in novel window ]
Andy Farrell acknowledged it was “a hell of a test match,” noting the need to address errors but praising the team’s “unbelievable character” to overcome a strong Italian side. He highlighted Italy’s improved resilience, stating, “They don’t travel away like they used to do, that’s for sure.”
Farrell specifically commended the scrum’s performance under pressure, calling it “immense,” and expressed “unbelievable pride” in the team’s fighting spirit, particularly during Italy’s late surge.
The Crowley Question
Discussion centers on whether Jack Crowley’s performance has earned him a starting position for the upcoming match against England. Peter O’Mahoney observed that Crowley “did himself no harm,” making decisions quickly and effectively. Conor Murray echoed this sentiment, stating Crowley “fitted in to the system” and executed his role efficiently. Rob Kearney, however, noted a contrast in confidence levels between Crowley and Sam Prendergast, pointing out Crowley’s successful kicks compared to Prendergast’s missed opportunities.
Rob Kearney similarly highlighted the psychological aspect, suggesting Ireland were “nervy” due to recent criticism, while Crowley appeared confident. He emphasized the impact of the bench, particularly the change at scrum-half and out-half, in shifting the game’s tempo.
Captain’s Perspective
Captain Caelan Doris acknowledged a “proper battle,” praising the team’s character during a period of intense Italian pressure. He noted areas for improvement in clinical finishing and discipline but expressed satisfaction with the result as a “quality springboard” for the England match. Doris emphasized the team’s intent, particularly in the second half, and the need to learn from areas where they fell short.
Man of the Match
Robert Baloucoune, named man of the match, expressed his delight at making his Six Nations debut and scoring a try, stating he was encouraged by Andy Farrell to “express myself.”
Final Score: Ireland 20, Italy 13
The match concluded with a James Lowe interception preventing a likely Italian score. Rob Kearney commented that Ireland were “lucky,” acknowledging Italy’s strong performance but noting their missed opportunities.
Late Game Intensity
The final minutes were marked by intense Italian pressure, with Rory Best on ITV highlighting the impact of the bench and the speed and certainty Crowley brought to the game. The scrum, however, remained a concern.
Debut and Impact
Edwin Edogbo made his international debut, replacing James Ryan.
Penalty and Pressure
Italy narrowed the gap with a penalty from Alessandro Garbisi. Tom O’Toole replaced Jeremy Loughman.
Crowley’s Penalty
Jack Crowley extended Ireland’s lead with a penalty, marking a significant improvement in their performance.
Baloucoune’s Try
Robert Baloucoune scored a try, converted by Jack Crowley, shifting the momentum in Ireland’s favor.
Second-Half Changes
Ronan Kelleher, Tadhg Beirne, and Jamison Gibson-Park entered the game, replacing Dan Sheehan, Joe McCarthy, and Craig Casey.
Disallowed Try
An Italian try was disallowed due to a forward pass.
Conan’s Try
Jack Conan scored a try, providing Ireland with a strong start to the second half. Prendergast missed the conversion.
Half-Time: Ireland 5, Italy 10
Italy’s Monty Ioane faced potential disciplinary action for a punch thrown at James Ryan. The team went into the break with Italy leading.
First-Half Summary
Ireland was fortunate to be only 10-5 down, with Italy largely dominating the first half. Stuart McCloskey’s turnover prevented another Italian try.
Penalty to Italy
Italy won a penalty after dominating Ireland’s scrum.
Osborne’s Try
Jamie Osborne scored a try for Ireland.
Yellow Card
Louis Lynagh received a yellow card for a deliberate knock-on.
Early Exchange
Ireland had a solid start to the scrum, with Sam Prendergast kicking to the 22.
Teams
IRELAND: Jamie Osborne; Robert Baloucoune, Garry Ringrose, Stuart McCloskey, James Lowe; Sam Prendergast, Craig Casey; Jeremy Loughman, Dan Sheehan, Thomas Clarkson; Joe McCarthy, James Ryan; Cormac Izuchukwu, Caelan Doris (capt), Jack Conan.
Replacements: Rónan Kelleher, Tom O’Toole, Tadhg Furlong, Edwin Edogbo, Tadhg Beirne, Nick Timoney, Jamison Gibson-Park, Jack Crowley.
ITALY: Lorenzo Pani; Louis Lynagh, Tommaso Menoncello, Leonardo Marin; Monty Ioane; Paolo Garbisi, Alessandro Fusco; Danilo Fischetti, Giacomo Nicotera, Simone Ferrari; Niccolo Cannone, Andrea Zambonin; Michele Lamaro (capt), Manuel Zuliani, Lorenzo Cannone.
Replacements: Tommaso di Bartolomeo, Mirco Spagnolo, Muhamed Hasa, Federico Ruzza, Riccardo Favretto, David Odiase, Alessandro Garbisi, Paolo Odogwu.
