Ireland head coach Andy Farrell is a man who has seen it all in top-level sport.
Making his professional rugby league debut for English Super League side Wigan as a 16-year-old, Farrell has spent the last 32 years involved in professional rugby.
It is little surprise with this experience and knowledge that Farrell has taken his otherworldly playing talents with him to the coaching box.
Now, on the eve of arguably his biggest match in charge of Ireland as they take to the Stade de France to face the All Blacks in a Rugby World Cup quarterfinal.
Farrell could further cement himself as the most successful Irish coach of all time, should the men in green break their quarterfinal hoodoo.
Embracing Adversity
Key to his team’s success over the past three years has been a steely resolve that was perhaps lacking in previous Irish teams.
Unburdened by the past, Farrell and his players regularly talk openly about their willingness to embrace adversity.
Now on a run of 17 consecutive victories, including a series victory in New Zealand, a Six Nations Grand Slam and an undefeated pool run at this year’s World Cup.
It is clear that this mindset has them in a healthy place ahead of this evening’s match.
A Warrior’s Mentality
Leaning into this storyline, Irish Comedian Steven Connolly has just released a very well-done video of Andy Farrell and his charges heading into this evening’s quarterfinal.
Replacing Russell Crowe’s face in the iconic Gladiator film with Farrell’s, Connolly’s video brilliantly captures where Ireland are as they get set to go to battle once again.
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