Ireland’s progress in the Rugby World Cups has been akin to an explorer who believes the world is flat.
They will go to a certain point before the fear of what they think is the inevitable kicks in. Well, it’s about time they realised that they can go further than they ever imagined.
We have the players, the coach and we should have the belief. In the past we have defeated the best and we can do it again.
To get you in the mood for cheering Ireland over the edge to victory, we’ve put together a list of our five favourite games from Ireland’s World Cup history.
WC 1995, Ireland 24–23 Wales
Tournament favourites New Zealand were storming their way to first place in the group, so this was a straight shoot-out for second.
Some sloppy set-piece defending from Wales was enough for Ireland as they won by a single point. This try from Popplewell was a particular highlight.
WC 2003, Argentina 15–16 Ireland
Alan Quinlan’s try was absolutely vital in this group stage victory. Keith Wood’s work in the build up was nothing short of magical. Unfortunately for Quinlan, he managed to injure his shoulder while going over the line.
WC 2011, Ireland 35 – 6 Italy
This game was tight for long periods and it was only after the break that Ireland really kicked on. A brace from Keith Earls and a well taken try by Brian O’Driscoll made it a day to be remembered.
WC 2003, Australia 17–16 Ireland
We may have lost this match, but we still witnessed a moment of magic. O’Driscoll’s try in the corner will go down in history as one of the greatest Irish tries of all-time. A true legend.
WC 2011, Australia 6 – 15 Ireland
Ireland arrived into this game with the aggression levels set to maximum.
Their spirit and will-to-win is easy to see in the clip below, as Stephen Ferris lifts Will Genia up like a rag doll.
So there you have it, five of our greatest Rugby World Cup moments. Hopefully there will be a few more to celebrate very, very soon.
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