Bowe demands Irish intensity to shake Springboks

WHEN the dignitaries have been met, the anthems sung, and the whistle blows on Saturday, the start of the opening Test match to be played at the Aviva Stadium will be as predictable to Tommy Bowe as the ceremonials that preceded.

Ireland host world champions South Africa in Dublin 4 at the weekend and fully expect the welcome mat at their new stadium to be trampled under foot by a revved-up Springboks team eager to end a three-game losing streak in the capital.

As far as Ospreys wing Bowe is concerned, Ireland have to match that inevitable Bokke intensity from the off if they are to make it a fourth victory in succession and get the autumn internationals off to the perfect start.