A first-half full of promising play gave way to an error-strewn second 40 minutes against Argentina
That felt like quite a lengthy week of mourning, our rugby nation going from anticipating an awesome autumn to fearing it might prove to be abominable. And Virgin Media didn’t exactly lift the mood with that montage of worrisome clips from the New Zealand game, set to a tune that featured a reference to “the broken, the beaten and the damned”.
Shane, Matt Williams and Rob Kearney weren’t entirely sure, but Matt went a bit apocalyptic on us himself. “If Ireland don’t turn up, they could lose this game. And if they do the momentum that will be taken out of this team will be huge – selections will change, people will be dropped, careers will be finished.
Predictions. Matt: “Ireland to win, but if they do not turn up they can lose this game.” Rob: “We ... hmm ... will win, but it won’t be comfortable.” Shane: “We should be winning this game, but…”. So, a confident 3-0 for an Irish triumph. Come half-time, Ireland led 22-9. “We’re feeling happier,” said Joe, “a steadying-of-the-ship performance.” His panel agreed-ish, “Ireland much better than last week, Argentina much worse,” said Shane.
Clock ticking down, still just three points in it, nerves a little bit on the shredded side. It’s only the Autumn Series, it’s not like World Cup progression is at stake, but with Matt apocalyptically fearing finished careers, it felt like a touch more than just a game.
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