Daunting task for new-look Ireland to prevent Maori mauling

WITH their backs against the wall in the Maori’s backyard, Ireland will look to restore some semblance of pride in Rotorua tomorrow morning.

They better have learned fast.

Of the combinations in Declan Kidney’s starting XV for the clash at the Rotorua International Stadium (8.35am Irish time), only the half backs have ever played together in an Ireland shirt before.