Simon Easterby backs Sam Prendergast to handle French physicality

Ireland’s interim head coach Simon Easterby has expressed confidence in Sam Prendergast’s ability to rise to the challenge against a formidable French side in tomorrow’s Guinness Six Nations clash at the Aviva Stadium.

Despite scrutiny over his defensive performance in his debut tournament, Easterby believes the young out-half is prepared for the physical battle ahead.

Prendergast’s defence has been a talking point, particularly after Ireland’s previous match against Wales, where he was exposed in the lead-up to Tom Rogers’s try. His 15 missed tackles are the most by any player in this year’s championship, making his defensive capability a focal point ahead of the crucial encounter with France.

Easterby acknowledged Prendergast’s defensive shortcomings but is confident in his progress.

"He's fully aware of the need for him to step up in that area and I'm sure we'll see a physical side to Sam on the weekend that will maybe put a few of the question marks to bed," he stated.

While his tackling has come under scrutiny, Easterby is certain that Prendergast will improve with experience. "I guess it's an area of the game which every player has to have time for, in terms of preparation, the physical battles of the game."

The coach emphasized the importance of balancing attack and defence, stressing that Prendergast is actively working on refining his all-around game.

"I think at times he's been excellent, and he's put some real good shots in and at times he's missed a couple, and it's important that he's working incredibly hard at figuring lots of things out in his game, trying to be the best number 10 that he can be, best number 10 that can create opportunities for the team on the attack."

Easterby also confirmed that discussions regarding Prendergast’s defence have been ongoing throughout the tournament, stating, "And we certainly have had conversations around it across the championship, not just after the Wales game."