Ireland v Romania, RWC Pool B. Stade De Bordeaux, 14:30 Saturday 9th September 2023. Virgin TV / ITV

Yeah the lineout is the biggest concern. It should have been rectified by now. One positive though is that it doesn't seem to be a personnel issue given that it's been creaky with any number of different combinations at hooker and lock. That would suggest to me that it's something to do with timing, which is easier to fix than yips, at least in theory.

Ask Japan.

In the 1995 RWC, New Zealand beat them 145-17.

In 2019 RWC they beat Ireland 19-12. Ireland were ranked No.1 in the World then too.

Even Ireland themselves. At the dawn of professionalism, we couldn't win an argument. Now we have every milestone achievement in the game, save for the World Cup itself and we routinely beat everyone. Literally all comers.

It takes investment and organisation, but it can be done. A talented executive and a visionary board leading the process of change can make it happen.

Italy are a good example of bad leadership and short sighted planning. Its why they've been bouncing off their own low ceiling for such a long time now.

Yeah I was astounded POM was selected as MotM.

Aki was central to everything good we did today, he has some wheels for a lad in his 30s too.

Aki amazing today, from the instagram pics he has trained really hard and it’s very satisfying to see that translate into great rugby. He was a man on a mission, more of that please!

I would disagree on the Aki point. He cemented his status as our 1st choice no.12 today. Must be picked now when fit.

Not so sure on that but great place to be in having Aki and Robbie vying for that spot. Position of real strength for us @ 12.

Henshaw needs to find fitness before there's any competition at 12. Right now, a fit Aki is critical to our WC campaign.

Would have zero issue with Robbie or Aki starting at 12. Robbie is a world class 12 period. Aki not essential if Henshaw available but it is fantastic to have both champing at the bit for 12.

Personally would still have Henshaw starting at 12 in a wcup qtr etc if fully match fit but it really isn't an issue either way in my eyes and a damn good place to be in @ 12.

I don't rate Loughman and Henderson, think they are liabilities. Henderson has dropped form and Loughman not at the races at this level.

Loughman has a great deal of credit in the bank with Munster fans from his performances in the latter stages of last year's URC.

There's no sugar-coating today though. That was bad. But at the same time, I'm certainly happy to call it an anomaly. Scrummaging was a mixed bag, but it was around the park where he had most of his hiccups. And that's odd, given how strong he is in the loose.

Heat, soap-ball, nerves, too keen to impress, who knows. But today didn't reflect him as a player.

Do I want Porter fit for 80 minutes against South Africa? Yes.

But I'd also be chill on Loughman. He'll reintroduce himself.