We’ve become so predictable

IF IRISH nerves were jangling after the very disappointing August warm-up phase, the performances of underdogs Tonga, Japan and Romania against the technically superior outfits of New Zealand, France and Scotland in their opening World Cup contests on Saturday had the squad on red alert.

After what 14 of the squad went through against Namibia and Georgia four years ago, the one thing you could take for granted was the USA challenge last night would not be taken lightly.

Factor in the additional 9/11 emotions and you really got the sense that the Americans would be super-charged for this one.