All Blacks great: Ireland have lost their mojo
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Former New Zealand scrumhalf Justin Marshall believes Ireland’s subpar November performances indicate vulnerability heading into the 2025 Six Nations.
Speaking with Kiwi broadcaster Martin Devlin on DSPN, Marshall suggested that despite maintaining their winning ways, Ireland’s recent form raises concerns about their tactical approach being decoded by opponents.
“You do have to wonder whether or not they’ve lost their mojo a little bit. I thought that they still have the calibre of player but they’re starting to get figured out a little bit in the way that they play,” said Marshall, who also noted the effect of head coach Andy Farrell’s absence due to British & Irish Lions commitments.
“Particularly defensively, the All Blacks have struggled against them for a couple of years, but both Australia and New Zealand showed that they could score tries against Ireland and that will be concerning for Andy Farrell.”
The 81-Test Marshall pointed to Ireland’s narrow victories over Argentina and Australia, coupled with their loss to New Zealand, as evidence of their declining dominance since holding the world No 1 ranking for over a year.
“For me, it will be about whether they can change the picture a little bit because teams are starting to figure them out,” he said.
“When you’re No 1 in the world, you’re the team that other sides want to knock off your pedestal. People are starting to recognise that they are more vulnerable than they have been.”
While acknowledging Ireland’s resilience, Marshall highlighted their struggles against both the All Blacks and Wallabies.
“I thought that they were resilient in November, and good teams are resilient – they find a way to win regardless of the situation,” he added.
“When I watched that game, Australia dominated Ireland. The fact that they couldn’t just defend a couple of rolling mauls cost them and it’s been a bit of an Achilles heel for Australia.”
Photo: Charles McQuillan/Getty Images
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