The big questions are: Why were Ireland under the cosh for so long against South Africa? Why was their discipline, not just at the scrum, so poor? And why did they compound so many sloppy errors?
Jack Crowley gets back in the nick of time to prevent Springboks winger Canan Moodie from scoring a try. Photo: John Dickson/Sportsfile
In the immediate aftermath of Ireland’s sobering defeat to South Africa last Saturday, Andy Farrell said his overriding emotion was that he was “unbelievably proud” of his players.
Farrell’s glass half-full approach was reflective of how many Ireland supporters felt leaving the Aviva Stadium, but there was another strong cohort who were desperate for some home truths.