Overall the pack was disappointing against England and the persistence in holding the ball in the back row was hard to understand. The back row against England was not effective and it was difficult to understand why Eric Miller was not brought on much earlier than the closing stages. Victor Costello and Andy Ward were well below their best and the injuries they had sustained in the weeks prior to the match obviously had their effects. It is a great pity that Denis Hickie got injured, lost form and lost confidence. Hickie at his best would be a significant addition.
Talent is thin in the wing positions.
Jonathan Bell's recurring injury problems are also a cause of worry for quality is thin on the ground in the centre as well. But it is good to see Bell back for the match. Nor has Conor McGuinness been convincing at scrum-half, for all his bravery and industry. He needs a big match tomorrow. Ireland had a better record against them than against any of the other countries in the championship.