NELSON, New Zealand (AP) — Italy captain Sergio Parisse believes he has identified a couple of flaws in Ireland’s setpiece defense that could be exploited in their crucial Rugby World Cup match. One issue, though: his team plays the United States five days beforehand.
Italy takes on the U.S. Eagles at Trafalgar Park in Nelson on Tuesday but the looming shadow of the defining Pool C match on Sunday against Ireland is ever present, making it difficult for Parisse and teammates to stay on-message Monday about the threat posed by the Americans.
Parisse says “Ireland made mistakes that we will analyze” but “we want the right result tomorrow so that we can prepare for the Ireland match in the best way possible.”
