Nobody is better served to compare the form of both Ireland and France than Romania coach Lynn Howells.
The Welshman oversaw Romania’s losses at the hands of both countries in The Oaks’ opening World Cup fixtures and after Sunday afternoon’s defeat to Joe Schmidt’s side, Howells revealed that he believes Ireland are the stronger team.
“The two sides have a strength in depth,” he said. “I think Ireland have a more a more complete game than France.
“I think they are better equipped to go further in the competition.
“I think Ireland will win.”
Howells continued to explain that Schmidt has done a fantastic job of shoring up any weak areas that Ireland may have had before he took over and that the reigning Six Nations champions are reaping the benefits.
“From what we’ve done on analysis of Ireland, I think they’re pretty complete. I think you’ve seen it over the last two Six Nations competitions, when they have to play to a high tempo, they’re capable of doing it.
“If they need to close a game down, they’re capable of doing it. If they need a kicking game, they have the ability to do it.”
But Howells doesn’t just believe that Ireland will top Pool D. When asked whether he thought they could go all the way and take the World Cup, he didn’t shy away from giving them his backing.
“I think it’s a possibility, I really do. I don’t see any reason why now. Especially after I watched Wales beat England which was very good last night.
“For the Irish team, I think they have all the ability. Their lineout is very good. They scrum was solid and in the contact area, they are very well managed.”
