Let’s throw something wild and unpredictable at the French and see how they react

PATTERNS, tactical strategy, lines of running and the many other phrases commonplace in modern rugby are all very fine - and, no doubt, very important.

But such is the nature of the game that there is and always will be room for the spirit of up and at ’em, for having a lash and giving it a go.

And if Ireland play with the fire and physicality that have long been traditionally associated with this country, allied to the skill that abounds in the side, then I believe they will beat France in the World Cup quarter-final in the Telstra Dome in Melbourne tomorrow.