PARIS (AFP) – Andy Farrell said for “little old Ireland” to be in “the same bracket” as their Rugby World Cup quarter-final opponents New Zealand shows how far the Irish have come as a rugby nation.
Farrell was speaking after his side showed why they are ranked number one in the world as they crushed Scotland 36-14 in their final Pool B match at the Stade de France yesterday.
It sets up a rematch with the All Blacks, the three-time World Cup winners who thrashed Ireland at the same stage in 2019. Ireland though recorded a historic series win in New Zealand last year.
Farrell will be bidding to take the Six Nations Grand Slam champions to new territory in reaching the last four of a World Cup for the first time. The All Blacks, though, have begun to show some scintillating form in the pool matches despite an opening defeat to hosts France.
“New Zealand are a fantastic side,” said the 48-year-old Englishman. “But for little old Ireland to be talked about in the same bracket shows how far we have come as a rugby nation.
“Our respect for them is through the roof, their form is top drawer at the moment.
“They will be relishing this fixture to try and put a few things right.”
Farrell – who after an initially rocky patch has taken the Irish to new heights since he stepped up from assistant coach after the 2019 World Cup – said his team were battle-hardened after two tough pool matches.
“The All Blacks is as tough as tough as it gets,” said Farrell.
