Today is one of those days, and reminds me of Dublin 2003, when I went to watch the rugby on the telly in a pub.For those without insight into the specifics of my history it was when I went to watch the Ireland v England Grand Slam decider. We were all there from the Mercenaries and it was a time to decide your loyalties. I chose Ireland against my usual instinct of being English because of the arrogance of Woodward and the rest at the time. I remember Paul Beirne was in deep dis-believe. I chose wrong as far as the result was concerned as England romped home in their World Cup winning year.
Now the circumstances are different. England are just dull, one-dimensional, conservative and uninspiring. That is just on the field;, off it they are idiots without an ounce of insight. They are potential lions led by a donkey.
Ireland, despite an appalling run-in to the tournament has played with vigour and enterprise. They make you want to enjoy the game. They have my vote.
So this weekend “go Ireland” and I hope they win. England will win but I hope and expect Ireland to beat them next weekend in the semi-final. I see an Ireland v New Zealand final-go the homeland.
