'There is always a first time to knock over Ireland'

Fresh after their facile 84-0 win over a hapless Romanian side, confidence is growing in the Scotland camp as they look to cause a major upset by beating Ireland in Paris on Saturday night.

Scotland have recovered from their opening defeat to South Africa by beating Tonga and Romania to leave themselves still in the hunt to make the quarter-finals.

Despite having lost their last eight games to Ireland, the Scots appear to be in optimistic form heading into their final pool clash at Stade de France.

Gregor Townsend will hope to welcome captain Jamie Ritchie back from his recent head injury, which would bolster his side’s hopes of ending their dour record against Ireland.

"Over the last few years, I know we haven't knocked over Ireland (Scotland last defeated Ireland in 2017) but there is always that first time and it would be special to do it on the weekend,” Scotland defence coach Steve Tandy said.

"We focus on ourselves, we have an unbelievable opportunity in the World Cup to play Ireland. It will be an amazing atmosphere and the boys have put in some good performances in France. So we are super excited about the opportunity and getting out there on Saturday night.”

Tandy was part of the previous Lions tour, so he knows plenty of the Ireland players, as he looks to nullify their multi-layered attacking threat.

"They're not a bad team, in fairness,” Tandy laughed.

“We have massive respect for what they do and what they have done, they are on an amazing run and have great players. They are well coached but we believe in ourselves.

"We know it is going to be a real tough challenge against Ireland but it's the World Cup. They are amazing, big games and this is where you need to be. If you're going to win a World Cup then you have got to knock over the big teams.

"They are really efficient at what they do. They don't make many unforced errors. Obviously they've been together a while now, the coaching staff. They are a well-oiled machine around how they play.

“It's a clear identity but there is always some variety that comes with it as well, (they're a) very experienced group who ultimately know how they want to play."

Tandy believes Scotland have improved since the Six Nations earlier this year, when they came unstuck at Murrayfield despite Ireland prop Cian Healy scrummaging at hooker and back-row Josh van der Flier throwing into the lineout.

"I think there has been growth in us and I think that is what has been brilliant about these World Cup windows,” Tandy continued.

“Six Nations time, you don't get the boys for long periods, you get them probably seven to 10 days before you play your first game. It's been brilliant to have the time with the boys. I think there is definite growth in what we do. I suppose the truest test will be on Saturday."

Analysing Ireland may be a little easier this week due to the familiarity aspect between both teams, as Tandy expects a cracking contest between the two old foes.

"Defensively I hope it has a neutralising factor but I think you have two teams who play really good rugby as well,” he maintained.

“I think whether it is attritional or open, I think it is going to be some spectacle. That is what this game provides to the supporters and the Rugby World Cup.

“These are the games everyone wants to see. I think rugby fans really respect, whether it's attritional or open, there are different ways of winning games. Conditions then come into play and then two really good teams kind of neutralise each other in different ways.

"These big games might come down to just having those one or two moments that you execute at the right time.

"Being the underdog and everyone writing you off, I think the players, coaches and nations respond to it. It's something that is there but ultimately I don't think it's a major factor for us.

“We don't read into that too much. Whether you are favourites or underdogs you still have to put in a performance that you are proud of."

Scotland (10) trail Ireland (14) by four points heading into the crucial showdown in Paris, but Tandy insists his side won’t get caught up in the various permutations.

"It's minor,” the Scotland assistant coach added.

“You have to concentrate on your side, I don't think you can think too far ahead too early. They are an outstanding team, but it's about focusing on what we do and the later the game goes, you'll obviously be aware of things, of what the permutations are. But ultimately the focus will be winning the game."