McNaughton defends Ireland’s bruising schedule

IT WILL be a case of once more unto the breach this weekend for Ireland’s willing but weary troops after three weekends spent facing some of the most bruising opponents world rugby has to offer.

Next up? Argentina.

It is a punishing schedule for an Irish squad that has already lost the services of Rory Best, Rob Kearney and Luke Fitzgerald after injuries suffered against the All Blacks and six more players were restricted to light duties yesterday.