Ireland admit to 'a little bit of nerves' ahead of Scotland clash

Assistant coach Andrew Goodman says there is an extra edge in Ireland’s camp ahead of a potential Guinness Six Nations title decider against Scotland.

Andy Farrell’s squad spent Saturday afternoon cheering on the Scots to a dramatic 50-40 success over France which ensured the battle for championship glory would go down to a three-way shootout on the final day.

With the Triple Crown also on the line on Saturday in Dublin, Ireland must beat title rivals Scotland and then hope table-topping France slip up at home to England.

“It’s an amazing buzz. It’s great to be part of a last week when there’s plenty on the line,” said attack coach Goodman.

“As you can imagine, there was some quite loud roaring for Scotland on Saturday afternoon.

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“It was great to sit back after getting the five points (against Wales), still knowing that we didn’t get the performance we were chasing down, but it creates a good edge for the week.

“We know there’s a Triple Crown within our control, and then who knows what’s going to happen the way this competition’s been going.

“What a great advertisement for the game. I think it has to be one of the best Six Nations for a long time, with the competition week to week, so it’s been great to be part of. ”

Ireland secured a 27-17 bonus-point triumph over Wales on Friday evening to make it three wins from four in what proved to be the least-dramatic round-four fixture.

Scotland and defending champions France then served up a 13-try classic at Murrayfield before Italy registered a landmark first victory over England, winning 23-18 in Rome.

The Scots begin the weekend two points above Ireland as they chase a first Triple Crown in 36 years and a maiden Six Nations title, with Les Bleus currently in pole position courtesy of points difference.

“It’s where we all want to be: the players and the management group want to be part of these big games that have got real importance to them,” said Goodman.

“There’s lots of excitement, a little bit of nerves, as you can imagine, and some good edge around the place.”

Ireland have won 11 matches in a row against Scotland – a run dating back to February 2017 and spanning the entire tenure of opposition head coach Gregor Townsend – and 15 of the last 16.

Both sides lost their opening matches of the championship, with the Scots suffering a surprise 18-15 defeat to Italy in rain-soaked Rome after Ireland were hammered 36-14 in Paris.

“I’m sure they’ll come here with lots of belief and confidence around what they’ve been able to do over the last three weeks after a tough start like we had as well,” said Goodman.

“I’d say listening to what they’re saying as a group, their belief is as high as it’s ever been.

“I’m sure it’ll be up there with one of the better (Scotland) teams that have travelled over to these shores.”