The IRISH RUGBY thread

[GetOverTheBar]

The French are laughing. All Blacks in the Group Stage. Probably will play them first to kick off the tournament in style.

Can't play them again to the final. Young team with the world at their feet and certainly will not fear either 1 or 2 in Pool C or D in the Quarters.

[RedHand88]

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/55538729

Playing friendlies in the middle of a pandemic. Crazy stuff.

[Never beat the deeler]

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/rugby-union/55538729

Playing friendlies in the middle of a pandemic. Crazy stuff.

[Franko]

It probably is but I agree to an extent.

This started as a glorified piss up which has now been built up into something it's not by years of PR.

It's like assembling the best footballers out of Donegal, Armagh, Monaghan and Tyrone and heading down to play Kerry a few times.

Then, most absurdly, getting excited as hell because you managed to beat them.

Overhyped trash.

[Baile Brigín 2]

It probably is but I agree to an extent.

This started as a glorified piss up which has now been built up into something it's not by years of PR.

It's like assembling the best footballers out of Donegal, Armagh, Monaghan and Tyrone and heading down to play Kerry a few times.

Then, most absurdly, getting excited as hell because you managed to beat them.

Overhyped trash.

I have never understood how seriously rugby goys take the Lions.

[GetOverTheBar]

The last few tests have all been well worth the viewing though.

It sells, it will continue.

[Franko]

The last few tests have all been well worth the viewing though.

It sells, it will continue.

Definitely, it can be good viewing.

But it's exhibition stuff and not something where the result should be taken seriously

[GetOverTheBar]

And the following DVD documentary is usually a mass seller. People love that type of insight, its rare in professional sport and that's what attracts people to the Lions.

[thewobbler]

It thrived in the early professional era as it was an attractive, well-paid junket, not just for players but administrators, media and sponsors.

Once players start opting out - which is inevitable if they're getting well paid by clubs  - it will quickly descend into memory.

[screenexile]

It thrived in the early professional era as it was an attractive, well-paid junket, not just for players but administrators, media and sponsors.

Once players start opting out - which is inevitable if they're getting well paid by clubs  - it will quickly descend into memory.

There's no question that will be the case but the I can't see how that will happen in the long term. It's too much of a cash cow for all concerned. The Lions get all their commercial and TV money while the home nations get the gates and the exposure it's win win for Rugby. There will always be a place set aside in the Calendar for it.

[Franko]

And the following DVD documentary is usually a mass seller. People love that type of insight, its rare in professional sport and that's what attracts people to the Lions.

And that kinda proves my point.

That level of insight/access wouldn't be given to a camera crew for a WC or 6N tournament

Because the result actually matters to the players and teams/management wouldn't want to give away an edge

The lions on the other hand is basically the rugby equivalent of the GAA Allstars tour so they're not particularly bothered

Maybe some of the players use it as a shop window to get themselves a better contract

And no doubt, all involved will give the usual speel to the media to keep the cash cow alive

But anyone getting bothered about the actual results of the games needs their heads looked at

[Walter Cronc]

If someone wants to follow and support the lions let them do it. Who is anyone on here to judge.

[seafoid]

https://www.rte.ie/sport/rugby/2021/0116/1190221-i-would-be-worried-about-rugbys-soul-in-long-term/

[Hound]

Hard luck Munster

[Walter Cronc]

That was garbage. What in under god has happened Leinster. Can't remember last watching them and being excited. Awful dull. Cullen and Lancaster to blame.