Six Nations: Ireland happy for Scots to target O’Gara

Published on 20/02/2013 12:00

Ireland defence coach Les Kiss has challenged Scotland to target Ronan O’Gara in 
Sunday’s RBS Six Nations showdown at Murrayfield.

O’Gara is expected to replace the injured Jonathan Sexton at fly-half. The out-of-form 35-year-old has a reputation for defensive frailty, but Kiss is only too happy for the Scots to attack the No. 10 channel.

“It can actually set the opposition up to go down a path that we want them to go down,” said Kiss. “If Ronan is starting for us, then let them go there.”

Ireland’s injury and disciplinary problems mean there will be at least five changes to the side defeated 12-6 by England.

Prop Cian Healy is suspended so either David Kilcoyne or Tom Court will be asked to perform the loosehead duties.

Uncapped Ulster centre Luke Marshall is the favourite to fill in for Gordon D’Arcy, while Donncha O’Callaghan will partner Donnacha Ryan in the second row – if the latter recovers from his back problem. Keith Earls is favourite to replace 
Simon Zebo on the left wing.