Autumn SeriesThe current rude health of Irish rugby has been endorsed by a couple of South African coaches ahead of the Springboks' visit to these shores next month. Gert Smal and Allister Coetzee, assistants to Jake White, have endorsed the view that Ireland is one of the most capable teams in the Northern Hemisphere.
Smal, who coaches the Springbok pack, maintains Ireland pose a bigger threat to South Africa than do England - the Boks meet Andy Robinson's side twice in November - and that Lansdowne Road will be a tougher place to win.
"I think Ireland will be tougher than England," Smal admitted. "If not tougher, then certainly as difficult as England. They're a very well organised unit, have settled combinations in all departments and they have experience. It's going to be a huge challenge."
Coetzee, who works with the backline, offered a similar appraisal.
"Ireland are one helluva team. They've got some fantastic backs who've been playing together for some time now, and their secondrow in particular is very impressive."
The pair made their comments at a press conference at the Springboks' training camp as they prepare for their three Tests against Ireland and England on November 11th, 18th and 25th respectively.
