PARIS (AP) – Top-ranked Ireland blitzed Scotland, confirming a Rugby World Cup quarterfinal, by six tries and 36-14 on Saturday.
Ireland topped Pool B ahead of defending champion South Africa, which it beat 13-8 in a titanic contest two weeks ago.
This one was never close as Ireland cruised to a 17th straight win — one win behind the tier one world record — and led 36-0 before Scotland’s two tries.
The Irish have never passed the quarters and they face three-time champion New Zealand when they return to Stade de France next Saturday.
“This is where we want to be now in a quarterfinal against the toughest opposition we could get,” Ireland captain Jonathan Sexton said.
France faces the Springboks here the following day.
Underdog Scotland had to win and deny the Irish a bonus point to advance at Ireland’s expense. Instead, coach Gregor Townsend’s side slumped meekly to a record-tying ninth straight defeat against Ireland.
After only 63 seconds, Ireland was ahead. By halftime, it was 26-0 with a bonus point secured and a quarterfinal confirmed.
