Andy Farrell demands reaction as Italy test takes on new importance

Ireland’s bench offered some encouragement, injecting energy and momentum into the contest. There is now a strong case for promoting players such as Nick Timoney, Michael Milne, Jack Crowley, Jack Conan and James Ryan after their impact off the bench. Ireland also escaped Paris without any fresh injuries, and Farrell is hopeful of having Tadhg Furlong available again, with Cormac Izuchukwu another option under consideration.

“It’s obviously at the forefront of our mind, selection. It is and how we get the best response for that,” Farrell said.
“Sometimes, it’s giving people another chance. But we have to look at the in-depth reality of how it went and act accordingly to that.”

Ireland returned home last night and have today off before regrouping in Kildare ahead of Saturday’s Aviva Stadium clash with Italy national rugby union team. Italy begin their campaign against Scotland today, and Farrell is under no illusions about the challenge.

“It was going to be challenging anyway. I think they’re a good team. Italy are not the Italy of old. I think we all realise that,” he said.
“We know that we need to be on point to beat them. But there has to be a response to this, otherwise it’s for nothing.”

Farrell acknowledged the contribution of the replacements but stressed that being 29 0 down made it difficult to assess.

“Fair play to them. Nothing to lose and all that,” he said. “But, we’re a team and we have to be better than that.”

He dismissed the idea that changes at full back improved the attack, saying, “I disagree with that. It’s through intention, that’s the go-forward. That’s why that was happening.”

On Sam Prendergast’s difficult night, Farrell added, “It's tough, isn't it, for a fly-half when you're on the back foot? It's tough to judge him in that regard but another experience under his belt to stand to him.”

Prendergast’s brother Cian echoed that message, insisting Ireland’s character will shine through.

“I guarantee you we’ll show up now on Sunday to camp. We’ll review the game, we’ll be honest with each other and we’ll go to work and get ready to put on a performance next Saturday,” he said.

Farrell pointed to positives at scrum and lineout time and believes the experience must count.

“It has to,” he said. “That has to stand to us down the line.”