Yes we have heard it all before and luck will need to be on the side of the Irish if they are to have any chance of winning this encounter. Everyone keeps saying that the All Blacks aren't what they were, they lack depth, have too many injuries etc but somehow they do manage to remain the number 1 ranked team in world Rugby. 'Maybe this time, maybe this will be our chance' the Irish supporters will be saying. The All Blacks actually appear to be a little more settled going into this one than they were last year after being caught short against the French. Both sides have their fair share of injuries but it's most likely to affect the men in green more than the men in black. In an incredible statistic, the All Blacks still remain the only international side the Irish have never won against and this dates back to over 105 years between the 2 sides. One gets the feeling that if they were to have any chance they would need their full squad available, the stars to align and the referee to come from Ireland's reserve bench.
Ireland are much more competitive than they have been in the past and are right up there but one gets the feeling the hosts will come out on top. However, it is a difficult assignment for the home team because most haven't had any Rugby for 4 weeks and coming up against a team like the match hardened Irish will make it difficult from the outset. Playing a team from say the Pacific Islands would make it easier for them to ease into the season gradually but can't see Ireland affording them that luxury.
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