Ireland made it two wins from two in the Nations Championship with a 29-20 victory over Japan, but it was far from a convincing display.
Andy Farrell’s side were pushed hard by the Brave Blossoms in Newcastle, with another malfunctioning lineout and an inconsistent scrum ensuring there will be plenty to work on before next week’s huge showdown with the All Blacks.
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Several players enhanced their claims with standout performances, most notably debutant Sean Jansen, but others failed to take their opportunity.
Here are the five Ireland players who flopped against Japan – and who should replace them against New Zealand.
Ronan Kelleher
It was a landmark 50th cap, but one to forget. His opening lineout overthrow gifted Japan their first try and Ireland’s set-piece never recovered. Another crooked throw and a string of inaccurate deliveries summed up a frustrating afternoon for the hooker.
Who should replace him: Dan Sheehan
Sheehan remains Ireland’s undisputed first-choice hooker. His athleticism, breakdown work and lineout presence would be a huge boost against the All Blacks, with Ireland simply unable to afford another malfunctioning set-piece.
Thomas Clarkson
Clarkson retained his place after last week’s match-winning try against Australia, but this was a much tougher assignment. Japan put Ireland under real pressure at scrum time and the young tighthead was unable to wrestle back control before being replaced early in the second half.
Who should replace him: Tadhg Furlong
If fit, Furlong walks straight back into the starting XV. Ireland’s most experienced tighthead would provide the scrum stability and leadership that was missing against Japan, while his all-round game remains among the best in world rugby.
