The taking of opportunities and converting pressure is the hallmark of a great rugby team – which was the difference between the two sides as New Zealand triumphed 22-3 at Croke Park. Posted November 16, 2008 by James Mortimer

On paper it's looking good for in-form New Zealand. But it won't be easy as South Africa, hosts France and Brian O'Driscoll's Irish battlers look for glory. Posted August 01, 2007 by Matt Genner

What a yawn it was watching Ireland v Wales and Israel v England. Call that rubbish international football? Posted March 26, 2007 by Pete Lyons-McCarthy

This week at the 2007 Rugby World Cup includes a variety of exciting clashes which will play an important role in the quarter-final placings. The early stages of the tournament already saw the likes of New Zealand, Argentina, Australia and South Africa putting up their hands as hot contenders in the race for the William Webb Ellis trophy. Highlights this week include France v Ireland, England v Samoa and Scotland v New Zealand. Posted September 16, 2007 by Gabriela Lubenfeld

Ireland's defeat by France made their chances of qualifying from Pool D almost impossible - but other teams have already stamped their names on places in the later stages. Posted September 21, 2007 by Hamish McBrearty