2023 RWC Buildup, Squads, Fixtures 'etc'

Hugely embarrassing for the organisers that it was so one sided. I'd say TV ratings were through the floor for a WC semi final....nearly zero interest in it.

SA will win it, but they wont be going hundred percent full throttle. They have one day less rest than NZ and once they get the job done V england, ie see them off comfortably enough, taking it as easy as they can, while doing enough to get into the final, will be priority number one. not obliterating england, because they could... they would probably go for that if it were a final. But SA could win this game, win the battle but lose the war to NZ if they dont go in with a relatively full tank for the final

I wonder where all those people who called this New Zealand team the worst in their history, as a stick to beat Ireland with, are now?

Four consecutive Rugby Championships, that's tied for most ever in the competition, and destroyed Italy and Argentina on their way to the final.

Not for the casual viewer - it's shockingly bad for the tournament that a supposed 'world cup semi final' could be so uncompetitive (having looked uncompetitive before it even kicked off).

That was Angus Gardner's first knock out game at a world cup. It will probably be his last.

An England loss and it will be Barnes or Pearce.

Where we'd beat them in a game that is of no real consequence , the Irish team will be celebrated as heroes, but then struggle at the world cup in 2027.

The Pumas did not belong in a semi. Absolute gash side. A joke.

Of course it wouldn't take the edge of, but I still want a crack at them as soon as possible, but you're right the only way to get last week properly out of the system is to beat them in 2027 at the WC.

Argentina a joke. Pathetic match. How is that shyte going to attract supporters?

there's a lot to be said for the 'old fashioned' fast winger. i cant remember the last time we had one. possibly hickie?

and when i say fast, i mean blistering

We’ve already seen the semi finals last week. Didn’t bother watching tonight and I expect tomorrow to be another blowout.

It’s a great shame for Ireland that the best team they ever sent to a WC was subject to such a lopsided draw.

Hopefully WR learn their lesson for 2027. There is zero reason to do the draw before the 2026 autumn internationals.

They would beat us again next week.

But they might not in November when we are at our most dangerous