Tough task but O’Sullivan is upbeat

DESPITE successive Six Nations defeats, Eddie O’Sullivan remains upbeat that Ireland retain the self-belief and squad depth to defy the odds and defeat the world’s best XV at Lansdowne Road today (2.30pm).

The Irish coach dismissed any suggestion yesterday that All Black coach Graham Henry’s complete overhaul of the New Zealand side is treating their hosts with disrespect.

“He’s here to help New Zealand win a northern hemisphere Grand Slam. Don’t tell me, if you look through the All Black team, that it’s a weaker side than the one that played Wales,” he said.