Ireland skipper warns of pressure on new faces
Brian O’Driscoll has told Ireland’s new arrivals the heroics against South Africa must be reproduced in Sunday’s showdown with Australia.
Ireland made a blistering start to their autumn schedule courtesy of a 32-15 victory over the Springboks, a result that has given head coach Eddie O’Sullivan room to experiment.
In come rookie Ulster duo Isaac Boss and Bryan Young for their full Test debuts while Geordan Murphy, who has lost ground to Girvan Dempsey at full back, is handed the number 15 jersey.
Denis Hickie, a Test veteran like Murphy, completes the changes with first-choice left winger Andrew Trimble ruled out because of a hamstring problem.
O’Driscoll believes the quartet’s inclusion underlines the strength of Irish rugby but has warned they are under pressure to deliver following the Springbok demolition job.
“The changes show we have real depth. The four lads have slotted in and the team doesn’t look like it’s been weakened in any shape or form,” said the Ireland captain.
“It’s a nice place to be at. Eddie said he wanted to try out a few combinations on a big stage like the Australia game. They’re getting their opportunities now.
“Bossy is playing very well for Ulster this season. He showed what a threat he was when he came on against South Africa. He snipes extremely well.
“Denis and Geordan are both seasoned internationals. They have a wealth of experience. We set ourselves a good standard last weekend and I’ve spoken about not dipping below that bar.
“There’s real pressure on the lads who are coming in – and those who have hung onto their places – to re-enact the whole thing.
“Following last weekend there is balance to strike between keeping a lid on our enthusiasm and encouraging the guys to do more of the same.”
Australia’s Achilles heel is the scrum so handing Young his full Test debut - Marcus Horan drops to the bench – does not represent a risk.
However, Ireland boss O’Sullivan denied the inclusion of Young, who won his third cap during the 37-15 summer defeat by the Wallabies, suggests he is underestimating the tourists.
While O’Sullivan has hailed the 25-year-old Ulster prop’s ability to play on both sides of the scrum, he insists he is more comfortable at loose head.
“I had to put Bryan in at some stage during this season but that doesn’t mean I’m underestimating the Australian scrum by any means,” he said.
“It’s time for Bryan to step up to the plate and start a Test to see where he goes. He’s been doing very well for Ulster.
“I’m glad he’s been operating as a loosehead and tighthead. It’s good for a prop to get experience on both sides of the scrum and it makes him a very valuable commodity.
“But he’s more comfortable on the loosehead and that’s why we’ve put him there for Australia. It’s where he’s played most of his rugby.”
