5 Reasons Why We Think Ireland Can Beat The All Blacks In Chicago
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Ireland take on the All Blacks this Saturday in Chicago at Soldier Field in a mouth-watering test match.
Joe Schmidt’s men head into the mammoth clash as heavy underdogs against a much fancied New Zealand side, who are currently on the longest-winning tier one test record in the history of World Rugby.
It will be no easy task, with the Irish senior team still yet to record a win over the mighty All Blacks, and Steve Hansen’s side looking next to impossible to defeat at the moment, but as we know in sport- anything is possible.
Here’s five reasons we think they can finally do it.
1. The Luck of the Irish
The Americans loves to speak of Irish people and their luck. Playing in Chicago this has to mean something, right?
2. Home Support Advantage
We all know that pretty much every American has at some stage claimed they’re Irish. Add in the travelling support and all the ex-Pats and Ireland will feel like they’re playing in the Aviva.
3. The Four Provinces Have Started Well
Last season was a year to forget for all four provinces, bar Connacht’s triumph in the PRO12. Not one of the three sides in the Champions Cup managed to get out of their group, in a season that can be only seen as a disappointment overall. This year all four have been playing well. Munster were ferocious against Glasgow, Leinster and Ulster were unlucky in France, while Connacht are two from two in the Champions Cup. In the PRO12, all four sides have been putting in a pretty decent shift.
4. Murray/Sexton Combo.
How these two link up and perform could be key. Sexton, from what we’ve seen from him since he’s returned from injury, has looked sharp and could play a key role on Saturday. Murray has been in blistering form for Munster and will hopefully transfer this over into an Irish jersey on Saturday.
5. It’s Been A Long Time Coming
It has to happen eventually right? After 2013’s heartache, Ireland proved they can take the All Blacks all the way. With a bit of luck and the right players performing in the right positions, that elusive win could come on Saturday. God knows it’s been a hell of a long time coming.
What do you think? Can Ireland finally do it?
