Namibia star player says back row battle will be key

Namibia number eight Jacques Burger expects the back row to be the key battleground in tomorrow's World Cup clash with Ireland.

The Africans' loose trio has been highlighted as their greatest strength by Ireland coach Eddie O'Sullivan with Burger regarded as the main dangerman.

And the 24-year-old Griquas forward is relishing his collision with opposite number Denis Leamy.

“We have watched some Ireland tapes in preparation for the game,” he said.

“They're very impressive in the back row - physical guys who seem to complement each other very well. I saw Denis Leamy and I enjoyed seeing him in action. But it will be even better to actually play against him because he looks a formidable opponent.”

“We'll have our hands full, but so too will Ireland because we have a good back row. Our forwards have some experienced guys - the backs are a bit younger – so we'll be looking to take them on up front.”

Burger, who will join French second division outfit Stade Aurillacois in November and has been attracting interest from Natal Sharks, is expecting a difficult night at the Stade Chaban-Delmas.

Qualification from Pool D could hinge on points difference so Ireland, France and Argentina know they must demolish group minnows Namibia and Georgia as comprehensively as possible.

“We know what the Ireland coach said about scoring as many points as possible against us, but it doesn't bother us,” said Burger.

“We expected them to do that anyway because they're a professional rugby team.”

“It's such a competitive pool with France, Argentina and Ireland joining ourselves and Georgia and it's important the major nations score as many points as possible.”

“We need to get used to it because after Ireland, France and Argentina will want to do exactly the same. Georgia are in the same position as we are.”

“Everyone is expecting us to get hammered but the score does not matter as long as we give it our best. We're up against it, that's for sure.”