Irish unrest over state of pitch for vital game

Ireland have expressed concerns with the state of the Hakatanomori Stadium pitch ahead of today’s decisive Pool A World Cup clash with Samoa.

Scrum coach Greg Feek revealed governing body World Rugby have given both Ireland and Samoa “assurances” that the pitch at the Fukuoka stadium remains safe for action.

Large swathes of the turf were relaid in the wake of Italy’s 48-7 win over Canada, and then again after France dispatched the USA 33-9.

Head coach Joe Schmidt appeared frustrated by the state of the pitch at a training session yesterday.

The Ireland boss spent minutes examining problematic strips of turf, showing several areas to both scrum coach Feek and Ireland’s head of operations Ger Carmody.

“You guys are pretty smart individuals, and you would have seen the pitch yourselves,” said Ireland assistant coach Feek.

“They told us in an email, both teams know about it. We knew they had had to relay the pitch.

“So we just went out there, had an inspection and we’ve been given all the assurances by World Rugby that it’s safe to play on and that’s all we can ask for.

“Obviously I don’t want to predict anything or cause any more controversy at this stage.

“We were trying to alleviate any concerns when we were out there, but then it’s just a matter of wait and see. The referee will be aware of it, and what’s key is the communication is there.”

Ireland must beat Samoa with a bonuspoint to guarantee safe passage to the quarter-finals