Joe Schmidt has had his doubts, the Ireland coach has questioned his own approach.
Nine tries, 58 points on the board and a much-needed morale boost – Schmidt had every right to feel vindicated.
However he accepted the scrutiny he has been under and admitted to asking questions of himself also.
For the first time since taking over as Ireland coach in 2013 the Kiwi’s approach and effectiveness was under concerted scrutiny from fans and pundits.
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Three Six Nations matches without a win had ended hopes of a three-in-a-row and the grumblings were getting louder from those who expected Schmidt’s Ireland to play more like his swashbuckling Leinster side.
Before the mood turned mutinous, Italy (sort of) turned up at the Aviva on Saturday afternoon and obliged with one of the most pathetic performances in recent Six Nations history.
Reflecting on the 58-15 victory Schmidt admitted it was a pressure release.
“[Italy] lost a few players early on, which allowed us time and space to play, when afforded that we capitalised very well, converted some good scores.
“We probably haven’t had a lot of luck, we had one try against England and one against France not awarded, so to release the pressure valve is nice,” said the Ireland coach, who admitted to questioning his approach following the draw with Wales and losses to France and England.
“I don’t know if my approach is working but I work hard at it.
“I know people question the decisions I might make and the way we might play but I guarantee you that I question it more.
“I am always trying to think of how best to utilise the resources we have and how to best exert pressure on the opponents we are playing,” said Schmidt.
Injuries to key men like Iain Henderson, Peter O’Mahony and Sean O’Brien have contributed to the uncharacteristic number of new caps handed out – four in two Tests. Despite this Schmidt admits “keeping things fresh” is a challenge with a squad of over 30.
“These are all questions you ask yourself. One of the things I rely on is the huge amount of the leadership we have in the group, the players with experience to give me a bit of feedback about how the others might be adapting and fitting in.
“They might speak to them more than I do. I don’t want to intimidate and annoy them by speaking to them all the time so there are always some things you can reflect on when trying to raise the bar if you can.”
Maintaining a positive environment in camp ahead of next week’s Six Nations finale against Scotland should be easier after Saturday’s rout.
