"It doesn't matter how good your backline is, or how well rehearsed your strike moves are if possession is cut off at source. France were curiously lacklustre in defence at Murrayfield but Andy Farrell, the Ireland head coach, has reverted to the same selection as for England at Twickenham. Ireland's back row particularly the captain Caelan Doris were at their destructive best against England."
"I've come to the Aviva in the past where maybe it seemed a little bit more like hope [than expectation], he said. Where our strength comes from as a team is the hard stuff we've been through. To be resilient in those times is what gives me the most confidence that we'll be the best version of ourselves."
Scotland travel to Dublin with a genuine opportunity to win their first Six Nations title, but face significant challenges against Ireland. Ireland's back row, led by captain Caelan Doris, demonstrated destructive form against England and poses a major threat to Scotland's attacking ambitions. Scotland have made three changes to their starting XV, including a new second row pairing of Williamson and Gilchrist, which Ireland may target. Ireland head coach Andy Farrell has made four changes, recalling Dan Sheehan, Joe McCarthy, Josh van der Flier, and selecting Tommy O'Brien on the wing. Scotland captain Sione Tuipulotu expresses confidence that the team's resilience and collective strength will enable them to perform at their best despite the daunting venue and opposition.
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Read at www.theguardian.com
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