Ireland Strong Contenders In RWC 2007

Ireland face World Cup host nation France, along with Argentina, Georgia and Namibia in the Pool Stage of the Rugby World Cup. Eddie O'Sullivan became Ireland coach in 2001 and created an exciting Irish side to watch, gone is the old forward focused game and the team is climbing the world rankings, currently third in the world with O'Sullivans 15 man approach.

A Balanced Record For Ireland In Rugby World Cup's So Far

Ireland have never got past the quarter final stages of the Rugby World Cup, losing twice to Australia, twice to France and in 1999 losing to Argentina in the Quarter Final Playoffs (28-24) their worst performance in World Cup history to date. That meant Ireland had to qualify for the World Cup in Australia, facing a European qualifying group in 2002, which they came through with ease. Having played 16 World Cup matches, the Emerald shirts have a fairly balanced record winning 11 and losing 10.

Ireland's Rugby World Cup shirtIreland have new shirts in time for the World Cup in France. The shirts were launched during July. Although they have stayed true to the colour green the shirt is very different to all previous versions. They have joined England and most tier one nations it utilising all the latest technology. The shirt manufactured by Canterbury which features special sticky panels can be seen and purchased through the Ireland Shirts page.

A Mercurial 13

In Brian O'Driscoll, Ireland have one of the worlds best centres, having starred for the British Lions on their tour of Australia in 2001, he has superb ballskills and electric pace which mean he is a threat to any defence. Ireland will also be captained at the World Cup by Brian.

Pool 'D' 2007

Ireland feature in pool 'D' along with hosts France, Argentina, Georgia and Namibia in France 2007. Although Argentina will give them a test we would be surprised and disappointed if they do not progress as second in the pool.

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