Alan Quinlan claims Andy Farrell will be given a reality check when it comes to depth of his Irish squad as Ireland ‘A’ were hammered 47-19 by New Zealand XV.
In a game that Ireland ‘A’ never got going in, New Zealand XV physically dominated them at every area of the pitch, particularly the breakdown, where Craig Casey was given no protection.
When there were gaps in the defensive lines, the All Blacks made them play as they made their quality count and took their opportunities in a ruthless display
Given that this game was built as a way for Ireland players to force their way into the first team with a positive display, it was a very disappointing that nobody put their hand up for selection
Speaking on Virgin Media after the game, Alan Quinlan said this will be a reality check for Andy Farrell and his side after tonight’s heavy loss.
"It's a bit of a reality check for the depth that Andy Farrell is trying to develop, that they weren't able to cope tonight at home."
Matt Williams & Alan Quinlan reflect on a tough night for the Ireland 'A' side against the All Blacks XV.#IREvNZ | #VMTVRugby pic.twitter.com/JqWVKyojlv— Virgin Media Sport (@VMSportIE) November 4, 2022
“That’s a big learning curve, and it’s a bit of a reality check for the depth that Andy Farrell is trying to develop that they weren’t able to cope tonight at home.
The positives came from that second Maori game in New Zealand, but this is a different kettle of fish, these guys are all playing Super Rugby regularly.
It’s hard to start blaming the forwards on everything, but that’s where it starts. We probably underestimated them when we were talking off air. There’s a little bit of an edge to them there given that this game has been shown back in New Zealand, these guys are trying to get on the All Blacks team, some of them are probably peeved they’re not on the touring squad.
They’ll look back on this game these layers and know they can do better.”
READ HERE: Ireland Set For Another Jersey Colour Clash Against South Africa
In an hugely talented side that included TJ Perenara, Damian McKenzie and Patrick Tuipulotu, winger Shaun Stevenson was the star of the game as he scored four tries in a top display.
Oh that is ruthless from the All Blacks! ⚫️⚫️
Shaun Stevenson gets his second and New Zealand's third try in a devastating counter!#IREvNZ | #VMTVRugby pic.twitter.com/Mpu14IEVfz— Virgin Media Sport (@VMSportIE) November 4, 2022
Ian Foster’s side came flying out of the blocks with Stevenson scoring his first try after 10 minutes. Another try from Stevenson and Brodie McAlister put New Zealand 19-7 up at the interval in a first half that Ireland were completely outclassed in, with Ciarán Frawley scoring Ireland’s first try.
However, Ruben Lowe had New Zealand’s fourth try just seconds into the second half, as they produced a ruthless performance.
WOW! 🤯
What a start to the second half by the All Blacks! ⚫️
Ruben Love races over just after the restart!#IREvNZ | #VMTVRugby pic.twitter.com/HUKoreLnrz— Virgin Media Sport (@VMSportIE) November 4, 2022
There was some positives for Ireland with Marty Moore scoring a try in his first appearance for Ireland in quite some time, while Max Deegan scored a brilliant try after some fantastic work from Calvin Nash.
but New Zealand scored three more through AJ Lam, Braydon Ennor and Damian McKenzie capping off a brilliant performance, and a night to forget for Ireland.
The All Blacks get another! ⚫️
Damian McKenzie caps off a brilliant performance by adding a try to his points tally. #IREvNZ | #VMTVRugby pic.twitter.com/sMoazknARi— Virgin Media Sport (@VMSportIE) November 4, 2022
SEE ALSO: World Colour Blindness Group Call Out Ludicrous Ireland V South Africa Kit Clash
Ireland and South Africa will once again suffer from a kit clash on Saturday evening (Photos: Sportsfile)
