Preview: Ireland vs Canada

September 18, 2015
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Ladbrokes

Today's special

Ladbrokes are offering 3-1 on Ireland to score the first try vs Canada (max €10)

Joe Schmidt has named a strong starting XV to take on Canada this weekend and on paper Ireland should be winning this one. Ireland didn't have the best pre World Cup, with defeats to Wales and England not ideal but Ireland's form before that has made them genuine contenders this year. They face a Canada side who have been on a losing run, losing all their games in this years Pacific Nations Cup and losing two friendlies against USA and Fiji.

History between the pair:

16 Jun 2013 Canada 14 - 40 Ireland

23 May 2009 Canada 6 - 25 Ireland

08 Nov 2008 Ireland 55 - 0 Canada

17 Jun 2000 Canada 27 - 27 Ireland

30 Nov 1997 Ireland 33 - 11 Canada

30 May 1987 Canada 19 - 46 Ireland

Key Man: Jonny Sexton. When he's on form, Ireland are generally on form. The fly half has developed into one of the best fly-half's in the game and he is vital for Ireland.

One to watch: DTH Van Der Merwe. Glasgow fans know all about him and he comes into the tournament with a bit of form for his country. 2 tries in his last outing against Fiji and if given space he can be dangerous.

Head to head: Paul O'Connell & Jamie Cudmore. Will be interesting to see how these 2 face off against eachother. The 2 captains are both very physical and are both very important to their country.

BOD's prediction: Ireland. The boys in green will have too much for Canada with their full 15 out. Could be a long day for Canada if Ireland play to their full potential.

Today's special: Ireland to score first try vs Canada price boost 3-1 (max €10)

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