Ireland Rugby Coach Andy Farrell Demands 'Zero Excuses' After New Zealand Loss Ahead of November Tests

Ireland's rugby team, under head coach Andy Farrell, is facing a challenging autumn campaign following a third consecutive defeat to New Zealand in Chicago, where they lost 26-13 despite a strong start. Farrell emphasized that there are "zero excuses" moving forward, urging his players to improve decision-making and performance as they prepare to face Japan, Australia, and South Africa in Dublin. The team’s lack of match sharpness was previously noted but Farrell insists this is now behind them and insists on accountability and a disciplined approach. Despite the setback, Farrell remains confident in the players' ability to rebound, referencing their past resilience after tough losses. However, concerns persist about recurring issues from last season and the team's distance from their best form. The upcoming matches are seen as crucial for maintaining their world ranking and demonstrating improvement under pressure.