Ireland’s slip down the IRB world rankings has seen Samoa rise above their European counterparts in what’s been one of their most successful periods ever.
Now the Pacific Islanders travel to Dublin hoping to establish a more visceral difference between them and the Shamrock.
Last year, the Samoans travelled to Wales and pulled off an upset against Warren Gatland’s side. They are now looking to cause a similar shock in this year’s November internationals.
Read on for a full breakdown of the match’s viewing information along with a preview of the Aviva Stadium encounter.
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Date:Â Saturday, Nov. 9
Time:Â 5:45 p.m. GMT/12:45 p.m. ET
Venue:Â Aviva Stadium, Dublin
Viewing Info:Â BBC2 (NI Only), RTE2 (IRL)
Stream:Â BBC Sport Website (Only in some territories)
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Main Storylines
The Leinster Link
Given his highly successful past as Leinster coach, it’s unsurprising that Joe Schmidt should name as many as nine players from the province in his starting XV for Saturday’s match, another six waiting on the bench.
Stu Forster/Getty Images
During his time at the RDS, Schmidt won four trophies from the six finals he managed to lead his side to, undoubtedly developing a strong bond with some of those at his disposal.
However, the other provinces may feel that some of their stars have been overlooked in the selection process as a result of the New Zealander’s allegiances.
Recent years have shown Leinster to be at the top of not just Ireland but the European game as a whole at times, but Ulster and Munster may feel aggrieved at not seeing more of their players feature this weekend.
To name a few, Andrew Trimble and Dan Tuohy have been in particularly good form for Ulster of late, while Donncha O’Callaghan, fresh from penning a two-year extension at Thomond Park, may feel that his experience wouldn’t have gone astray. Â
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Fly-Half Opportunities
Bryn Lennon/Getty Images
One very noticeable omission from Schmidt’s squad to face Samoa is France-based Jonny Sexton. In his place, Paddy Jackson takes over the No. 10 jersey with Leinster’s Ian Madigan providing back-up from the bench.
BBC Sport’s Bryn Palmer confirmed the change:
Paddy Jackson starts at 10 for Ireland with Sexton not involved. O’Driscoll D’Arcy reunited at centre. O’Brien on bench, Chris Henry at 7
— Bryn Palmer (@BBCBrynPalmer) November 7, 2013
Ulster’s fly-half has been in good form for the Irish province this term, scoring 62 points in six games, averaging more than 10 points per game.
With Sexton being rested, this weekend’s fixtures against a very physical Samoa side will give Schmidt an idea of how limited, or blessed, he is in the position.
Article source: http://www.scotsman.com/news/scotland/top-stories/former-scotland-rugby-international-on-rape-charge-1-3150028
Ireland vs. Samoa Rugby 2013: Date, Time, Live Stream, TV Info and Preview
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