In Pics: Ireland Training At Sophia Gardens
The Ireland squad trained at Sophia Gardens in Cardiff yesterday as they stepped up their preparations for Sunday’s Rugby World Cup quarter-final against Argentina. Check out some photos from the session.
Click here to view photos of Joe Schmidt’s men in action during their run-out at the Cardiff venue.
Speaking about the fitness of Jonathan Sexton, who suffered a groin injury against France, and Keith Earls who sat out Wednesday’s session, Ireland scrum coach Greg Feek said: “Johnny did about a three-and-a-half kilometre run and he was reasonably confident doing that, so we will see how he goes on Friday.
“Keith is being looked after a bit. It’s not too bad and, again, we will see how he gets on on Friday. He’s just a bit battered. It’s just at this stage we want to do the best thing so we can have everyone fit and available.
“This week is quarter-final week and the players will want to train. It’s just making sure they are organised and okay.”
Feek rates Sunday’s opponents highly, adding: “Argentina have come into the World Cup under the radar a bit, but they have got a well-balanced side. Playing against South Africa, New Zealand and Australia regularly not only tests you, but it improves you as well. We are under no illusions that this weekend will be our biggest test so far.
“Marcos Ayerza is their big rock (in the scrum), I suppose. Since coming back to the new laws, I think he has come back to the fore, and the World Cup has shown that if you don’t get it quite right, anyone can hit you. It’s a real mental thing now and with Argentina, they look really good.”