James Ryan says Ireland are “not thinking about South Africa”, a blockbuster clash with the world champions following Saturday’s Test against Fiji.
The lock, who returns to the starting XV after coming off the bench against Argentina last week, insists the Irish cannot afford to look beyond the Fijians at the Aviva Stadium.
Next Saturday’s meeting with the Springboks will carry added significance after last year’s 24-13 defeat in Dublin. In that match Ireland’s scrum was dominated and had five players carded, including Ryan, who received a 20-minute red card.
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“We’re not thinking about South Africa,” Ryan, set to earn his 85th cap on Saturday, was quoted by RTÉ Sport as saying. “I know that’s the boring answer, but it is the answer. Everything’s on Fiji this week.”
Andy Farrell’s men need strong results over the next two weeks to keep their hopes of reaching the Nations Championship finals weekend on 27-29 November alive.
Ryan also stressed the importance of improving on last week’s 42-12 victory over Los Pumas.
“The big thing for us this week is growing on last week and being better again and more consistent, which I think will be important,” he said.
Photo: Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images
The post Ireland lock can’t be bothered by Boks appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
James Ryan says Ireland are “not thinking about South Africa”, a blockbuster clash with the world champions following Saturday’s Test against Fiji.
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