"Before the World Cup, there isn't that much time. Time is is running out as far as that's concerned. So we've got to find out about people and give them an opportunity."
This quote from Andy Farrell, during his post-match press conference following Ireland's loss to the Maori All Blacks, highlights the most important aspect of this tour and in particular the mid-week fixtures.
Results are not necessarily paramount as Ireland edge closer to the World Cup and look to nail down squad for France 2023, and take a proper look at internationally-inexperienced talent.
29 June 2022; Cian Healy of Ireland leaves the pitch on a medical cart during the match between the Maori All Blacks and Ireland at the FMG Stadium in Hamilton, New Zealand. Photo by Brendan Moran/Sportsfile
Despite suffering a heavy 32-17 loss and producing an all-round disappointing performance, Farrell would have learned a lot from the match, and his calm demeanour and collected answers suggests he is not as flustered by the final score as others seem to be.
“The Māori All Blacks thoroughly deserved the win,” said Andy Farrell. “It was a tale of two halves, I think discipline was an issue for us, we sorted it a little bit out at half-time and played some really good stuff in the second half.
“We left two or three tries out there we should have done better with. We’re disappointed, we know it was a big week for the Māori boys but it was a big week for some of our guys playing for Ireland for the first time.
“The lessons learned will be brilliant going forward. Some of our lads have tasted it for the first time, and will get another crack in a couple of weeks’ time.”
The most worrying aspect of the match were the injuries to Jeremy Loughman, Cian Healy, and James Hume.
While Farrell stated that Healy and Hume (groin injury) would need further assessment in the coming days, he was questioned over Loughman's return to the field of play after looking dizzy following an apparent head collision.
"No no he actually passed his HIA by an independent doctor. We brought him off as a precaution and put Cian on and then that happens to Cian which is not nice really. James Hume has a bit of a groin injury which needs assessing tomorrow."
Ireland have also come in for criticism from player welfare group Progressive Rugby, who are adamant that Loughman should not have been allowed return to the field of play and have labelled the incident as 'deeply alarming'.
looking dizzy
Ireland's 40-man squad is now being stretched very thinly in the loosehead and hooker department, but despite the initial surprise over the lack of numbers, Farrell is no doubt preparing for next year's World Cup where he can only take 36 men.
Ireland continue their tour at the same time this Saturday against the All Blacks at Eden Park.
SEE ALSO: Tough Homecoming For Aki As Ireland Taught Lesson By Maori All Blacks
