Joe Schmidt eyes fast start to put Aussies on back foot

If Ireland were under any illusions about how tough the defensive challenge that awaits them at Suncorp Stadium this morning will be in this opening Test against Australia, then listening to Wallabies captain Michael Hooper yesterday will have removed any doubt.

For all the hype that has accompanied Joe Schmidt’s Grand Slam winners since their arrival in Queensland a week ago and the expectation back home of a first series win Down Under since 1979 to stretch their winning streak beyond the current mark of 12 Tests, the touring party itself has been concerned with the numerous attacking threats the Australians possess.

With a back row of Hooper, David Pocock, and the debutant No. 8 Caleb Timu capable of producing quick ruck ball for a half-back combination of Will Genia and Bernard Foley only too willing to fire it out wide through Kurtley Beale to the likes of Dane Haylett-Petty, Marika Koroibete, and Israel Folau, the weapons in Michael Cheika’s arsenal are both impressive and daunting.