Ireland's hopes of a Six Nations triumph may hinge on their ability to start strongly in the opener against France, with lock James Ryan stressing that a quick start is crucial. The Stade de France stage is traditionally unforgiving for Ireland, having not won there since 2018.
Ryan knows that if France get off to a good start and gain momentum from the crowd, it will be difficult for Ireland to mount an effective response. Therefore, the pressure is on Ireland's team to set the tone early in the match.
The set-piece is expected to be a key area of contention between the two teams, with Ryan anticipating that France's strong line-out drive and scrum could give them a psychological edge. To counter this, Ireland will need to perform well at the set-piece themselves if they are to have any chance of success.
Ryan believes that Munster's Edwin Edogbo - who is set to make his debut for Ireland in Paris - brings something special to the table due to his size and athletic ability. Edogbo's physical presence is expected to boost Ireland's efforts at the set-piece, potentially giving them an edge over their opponents.
Ultimately, Ryan knows that getting a strong start will be essential if Ireland are to overcome the challenges they face in France.
Ryan knows that if France get off to a good start and gain momentum from the crowd, it will be difficult for Ireland to mount an effective response. Therefore, the pressure is on Ireland's team to set the tone early in the match.
The set-piece is expected to be a key area of contention between the two teams, with Ryan anticipating that France's strong line-out drive and scrum could give them a psychological edge. To counter this, Ireland will need to perform well at the set-piece themselves if they are to have any chance of success.
Ryan believes that Munster's Edwin Edogbo - who is set to make his debut for Ireland in Paris - brings something special to the table due to his size and athletic ability. Edogbo's physical presence is expected to boost Ireland's efforts at the set-piece, potentially giving them an edge over their opponents.
Ultimately, Ryan knows that getting a strong start will be essential if Ireland are to overcome the challenges they face in France.