article_snippet: Their billets were turned into an Irish cards den in the days leading up to the Six Nations visit of Wales; a stark contrast to the preparations for this meeting at the Millennium Stadium.
article_snippet: Both Robin McBryde and Rob Howley have since escaped to the warm comfort of the tactical box where — along with Warren Gatland, Neil Jenkins and Shaun Edwards — Both Robin McBryde and Rob Howley will be hoping to plot Ireland’s downfall at the Millennium Stadium this afternoon.
article_snippet: It promises to be an intense tactical battle between Gatland and counterpart Joe Schmidt, with the former subjected to a bitter personal attack by retired Ireland lock Neil Francis during the week.
article_snippet: In Conor Murray and Jonathan Sexton, Ireland have the world’s in-form kicking half-back combination.
article_snippet: How well Ireland anticipate that - perhaps using Sexton as a looping runner, if the wingers drop back - will be highly significant.
article_snippet: However, his players will face his players toughest breakdown battle yet against Ireland, who won 23 turnovers to nine against England in round three.
article_snippet: Warren Gatland’s game-plan relies heavily on quick recycled ball and Ireland will look to slow that down to limit the risk from the likes of Jamie Roberts and George North.
article_snippet: Getting on the right side of referee Wayne Barnes will be key, because Halfpenny and Sexton are two of the world’s leading goal-kickers.