November Internationals:
Canada V Ireland (0-55) 8th November 2008, Thomand Park

The start of a new Irish management regime with a convincing home win.

How did you think the team performed against Canada?

We got the result we wanted. It was important for us to start on a positive note with new coaches and new set up. It was really important we got it right. We played well in the first half and patches of the second half, we needed to keep our focus but it was difficult, we may have switched off for bits. The conditions made it very difficult.

What was it like playing for Ireland in Thomand Park?

It was very exciting for the Limerick lads to play in Thomand but the weather was a bit of a stinger. Great for Keith, his first cap and his first International try with his first touch of the ball.

Is the training you put in for Ireland different than the training you would do with Munster?

The training is different than Munster training, we don’t do as much physical work. We work more on match plans, patterns and structures for games, we work on organization. By the time you are playing an International you already have a lot of provincial rugby under your belt.

How did you feel about the team selection for the All black game?

Obviously I am disappointed, very disappointed but you just have to keep your head down and keep plugging away.

What is the feeling in the Camp now getting ready for the All Blacks?

We are all really looking forward to it. All the analysis is done and this is a chance for us to make history (Ireland has never beaten the All Blacks) everyone is really keen. Great challenge ahead of us to do something that has never been done before.

Is the preparation the same for all Internationals regardless of the opponent?

Yes the game preparation has generally the same structure, some individual players may increase their own preparation but as a team the same training is completed no matter who the opposition are. We give all teams the same respect when it comes to our preparation.

Do you analyse opposition tactics as a team or by individual players?

We review and analyse set pieces, some players may be individually analysed to see which arm they are more likely to carry the ball in, see if there is any pattern to their play, just try and get as much understanding as possible because if you can take advantage of the plays and patterns and keep control then the end result should be in your favour.

Jerry Flannery in conversation with USN