Insights from Simon Easterby: Wales' Journey of Promise and Passion On the Field
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Wales will head to the Aviva Stadium this Saturday as they take on Ireland. The Welsh go into the game as massive underdogs. Yet, Warren Gatland's side has shown promising signs in their games against Scotland and England. One of Ireland's coaches, Simon Easterby, gave his thoughts on why he thinks Wales is a good team.
A Promising Wales Team
There was a lot of anticipation going into this year's Six Nations for Wales fans. This is because the side is in a transition. Many big names are walking away from international rugby. It has led to many new faces wearing the famous red jersey. Even though they have had back-to-back losses, Wales has looked promising in each game. Wales will be a strong team in the future. Yet, for now, they look like a team that could cause an upset on their day.
Simon Easterby On Wales
Easterby, who lives in Wales, gave his thoughts on the young national side to the media.
"There's a lot of crap going on in regional rugby. It's tough for clubs. It's tough for club members. This includes not players alone. It also includes all the backroom people with the clubs. They have worked over the years to sustain regional rugby," he said.
“Supporters have also suffered. But, players have often proven that when they wear a Welsh red jersey, they have huge belief in what they're doing. They feel this as they enter the Welsh camp.”
"It showed in the Scotland game at home, 27-0 down, many reasons why they're 27-0 down, but they go back and almost win. They go to Twickenham and should have won the game.
"When they go into Welsh camp, they know how to prepare and know how to make a difference. The coaching group is part of that. But, the players are different beasts when they wear that red jersey. They understand what it means to represent their country, as our guys do.
There is much support for our team, and the players feel it. The Welsh are the same; they're passionate and want to see the players give everything. That doesn't mean it will be a success, but a performance and you'll always get that from a Welsh team."
Quotes via Wales Online
Wales will look to cause an upset on the weekend and get a massive win over Ireland.