Rugby experts believe Ireland need to solve ‘big issue’ or it will cost them at the World Cup

Ireland secured a 27-17 win over Wales in the Six Nations on Friday evening, which has kept their Triple Crown chances alive as they prepare to face Scotland next weekend.

Andy Farrell’s side started quickly and could have been out of sight early on; however, Wales dug in to make it a real contest.

Irish fans may be concerned about the serious drop-off in performance from their win at Twickenham to this victory against the Welsh in Dublin.

Irish journalists Rúaidhrí O’Connor and Cian Tracey were on the Indo Pod after the Ireland win, and there was one serious concern for them with Farrell’s team as they edge closer to the World Cup in 2027.

James Ryan of Ireland in action against Wales players Aaron Wainwright, left, and Eddie James during the Guinness 6 Nations Rugby Championship match between Ireland and Wales (Getty Images)

Tracey said: “If Jack Crowley wants to be the Ireland number 10 going forward, particularly with one eye on the next World Cup, he's got to nail his kicking because, whatever about anything else in terms of the stuff you're talking about, that is the bread and butter.

“And some of the kicks he missed tonight weren't exactly out on the touchline either. There were ones that he would have backed himself to make.

“Sorry, you know what? Like, it's actually a problem in Irish rugby. It is like in terms of goal kicking. Nathan Doak came on and made his debut. He's the best Irish qualified goal kicker because, as I was saying to you, Sam Gilbert for Connacht is probably the best kicker in Irish rugby at the moment. But it is a big issue. Harry Byrne has had his issues. Sam Prendergast off the tee has had his issues as well.

“But whatever they're doing is just not working. But they cannot afford to leave those kinds of points behind them.”

Jack Crowley of Ireland kicks a conversion during the Guinness 6 Nations Rugby Championship match between Ireland and Wales (Getty Images)

O’Connor was in full agreement with his colleague’s comments, as he believes that this element of the Irish game could cost them in a big game, with it potentially becoming a decisive factor at the World Cup in Australia.

They were keen to stress that this was not just an international problem within Ireland, but players have also struggled at provincial level, and it is something that not just Farrell will be looking to solve; he will be hopeful Leinster, Ulster, Munster and Connacht can also improve upon.