'We wanted the roof closed' - Farrell urges Ireland to embrace Cardiff atmosphere

Murray Kinsella Reports from Portugal IRELAND HEAD COACH Andy Farrell has confirmed that his side wanted the roof at the Principality Stadium to be closed for this Saturday’s Six Nations opener against Wales.

However, Farrell says he wanted his team to experience the loudest atmosphere possible away from home this weekend. Ireland have lost their last four Six Nations visits to Cardiff and Farrell was keen to stress how demanding a challenge it will be against Warren Gatland’s side this weekend. Ireland will have to win without key man Tadhg Furlong, whose recovery from a calf injury continues. With the Leinster man missing out, Connacht’s Finlay Bealham will make his first Six Nations start at the age of 31.

“He’s playing some outstanding rugby at this moment in time. The last game he played, he scored a hat-trick, he’s scrummaging very well, so he deserves a start. Tadhg will keep working away to hopefully be fit for the French game. “He has been desperate enough to get the opportunities and do well. I think the good thing for us is that there’s more in him at this level. We’re excited to see that.

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