Farrell wary of Wallabies' threats despite shock loss to Italy
SPOTLIGHT: Ireland head coach Andy Farrell is expecting a huge Test against Joe Schmidt’s Wallabies despite the Australians’ recent loss to Italy.
The match would mark the fifth time Farrell and Schmidt have met since last November, when Ireland defeated Australia 22-19.
They also faced off in 2025 in three Tests during the British and Irish Lions series, which the touring side won 2-1.
Farrell knows exactly what to expect from the Wallabies and said he expects a “hell of a Test match” from the visitors.
“We all know about Australia, what they’ll be thinking about coming to the Aviva [Stadium], there is obviously a big game for Joe [Schmidt], and it certainly will be for us at the same time,” said Farrell.
“Everyone knows the threats they’ve got, as far as the pace and athleticism in the backline, but the threat is up front, as well.
“The way they go about their business up front is obviously a part of their game that got better throughout the [British and Irish] Lions series. It’ll be a hell of a Test match.”
Ireland’s recent 41-10 win over Japan appears convincing on the scoreboard, but the performance had some red lights flickering.
There have been talks in the rugby circles that Ireland is a team in decline and low on confidence, but Farrell rubbished all those claims.
“Well, that’s our responsibility to make sure that that’s not the case; if it is, we will address that,” he said.
“You can have all sorts of excuses, can’t you, with the start of the season and travel, jet lag, all that. But not really, it shouldn’t matter.
“Anytime you play for Ireland, it should be a formal Test match where you go out there with proper intention from the start and play your game.
“We need to get over ourselves [stop feeling sorry for ourselves] and get on with the big boy stuff.”
