Ireland’s Andrew Goodman Credits All Blacks Coach Scott Robertson as Mentor

Ireland assistant coach Andrew Goodman anticipates a reunion with All Blacks coach Scott Robertson, with whom he previously worked at the Crusaders, when Ireland hosts New Zealand at the Aviva Stadium this Friday. Goodman, Andy Farrell’s attack specialist, is set to make his debut on the Ireland coaching staff this season, having taken over from Mike Catt. He was part of the Crusaders’ staff when they secured a Super Rugby title in 2022, working under Scott Robertson, who is now the All Blacks’ head coach. Goodman stated, “Razor [Robertson] was a big mentor to me.” He elaborated, “He gave me my opportunity at the Crusaders and he’s someone I learned a great deal off, so I’ve got huge respect for Razor and all of his coaching group. I’ve worked alongside all of them. “It’s going to be great to go to battle with them.” Despite Goodman’s extensive understanding of Robertson’s operational methods and the All Blacks’ considerable number of Crusaders players, the former Leinster coach indicated that he does not believe this will provide a substantial advantage on Friday. He commented, “Obviously it works both ways, they know me well also.” He acknowledged that there might be minor considerations regarding their opponents’ potential strategies in various game areas, but stressed that “it’s Test rugby, it’s a different level to what we were playing in Super Rugby in New Zealand.” Goodman added, “The game has kind of moved on and evolved a lot over the last couple of years.” As a New Zealand native, Goodman finds it “extra special” that his inaugural Test match as a coach will be against his home country. He further remarked, “Growing up in New Zealand, I was rugby mad and the All Blacks were a big part of my upbringing.” Sandi Toksvig will be accompanied by Gyles Brandreth, Lulu, Emmanuel Sonubi, and Alan Davies. Audiences can take the stage to perform songs by Queen, Taylor Swift, Bon Jovi, Katy Perry, and other artists. Ben Fogle and Kate Humble are returning for the celebratory events at Longleat Safari Park. Discussions will cover topics ranging from microplastics in our atmosphere, soil, and aquatic environments, to the volume of food waste generated during this period. Copyright 2024 BBC. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content found on external websites. Information regarding their external linking policy is available.