To outsiders, Ireland are operating in that cosy, low key environment known as 'under the radar'. In his brief Twitter video this morning, David Campese noted Ireland ('One of the favourites') had been going about their business very quietly, before for a 20-point win over Italy.
Still celebrating Australia's win but looking forward to Ireland v Italy today #ENGvAUS #IREvITA http://t.co/sooUJfsW8j
— David Campese (@Davidcampese11) October 4, 2015
Now, one giant of English rugby observes the same in an article alleging that he believes that Ireland can win the World Cup.
No more than many other English rugby players, Lawrence Dallaglio was never especially popular among Irish supporters, if for no other reason than the jersey he insisted on wearing, but he's bullish about Ireland's chances this weather.
He makes the rather basic point that they have all the necessary elements that a team needs if it's to win the Rugby World Cup, namely, 'a good enough team'.
Can Ireland win the World Cup? I am a firm believer that they can. They have what you need: a good enough team.
He sees one big similarity between the current Irish team and the England team that went all the way in 2003.
Between the England 2003 team and this Ireland team, I detect one important similarity. Twelve years ago we just wanted to get through our first five games knowing that our tournament began with the semi-final against France. Deep down, Ireland have known they had three games to get through before things get really serious against France.
When we got to the French in 03 we were confident and calm. Provided nothing untoward happens today, I see Ireland being in the same state of emotional readiness for France in Cardiff. The French are good and not to be underestimated but they are not a vintage side.
This is a vintage Irish side and I expect them to win today and a week from now.
Scores of English rugby fans are already hopping aboard the rather crowded Irish rugby bandwagon (many Irish people seem to be of the view that there is no room for Piers Morgan, no matter how avidly he wishes to climb aboard) and one writer has suggested supporting us on the unusual grounds that 'Ireland's Call' is a belter of a song.
