Bernard Jackman: Production values let big show down but I have no doubt we’ll be back to our best soon

Tadhg Furlong of Ireland, bottom, dives over to score his side's first try during the Gallagher Cup match between Ireland and New Zealand at Soldier Field in Chicago, USA. Photo by Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile

First things first, and last night’s game in Chicago between Ireland and New Zealand made a lot of sense in terms of promoting the game of rugby . And, if any two teams can crack America it’s Ireland and the All Blacks.

Ireland because of the pull the jersey has with ex pats, while the legacy of the All Blacks means they are the only international side that non traditional rugby but sports fans are aware of in the US and elsewhere.

See Full Page