Ireland v Fiji predictions and rugby union tips: Fiji to go on the attack

Free rugby tips, best bets and analysis for Saturday's autumn international between Ireland and Fiji.

Where to watch

Amazon Prime, 1pm Saturday

Best bet

Fiji +28
1pt 10-11 Coral, Ladbrokes

Match preview

After coming through a tough workout against world champions South Africa, Ireland take on tier-two opponents in the shape of Fiji for the second autumn Test.

In past years these contests have proved tricky, and the last time Fiji visited Dublin five years ago Ireland came away with a narrow 23-20 success.

Last autumn Ireland were far more emphatic in their autumn campaign, beating New Zealand, as well as putting 50 points on Argentina and 60 on tier-two Japan.

But they fielded strong sides in those matches, while on Saturday coach Andy Farrell takes the opportunity to rest key players and give starts to more squad members.

Captain and fly-half Johnny Sexton is among those sitting it out along with Hugo Keenan, Peter O’Mahony and Josh van der Flier. Joey Carbery steps in for Sexton at fly-half, prop Jeremy Loughman makes his debut, while new caps Jack Crowley and Cian Prendergast are on the bench.

Ireland have shown a real attacking threat this year under Farrell and are asked to cover a handicap in the high 20s.

Fiji blew hot and cold against Scotland last week, when a shaky set-piece and poor discipline let them down. But they scored two tries and head coach Vern Cotter will have looked to tighten up the weak areas.

They have the firepower to get points on the board, which would leave an unfamiliar Ireland line-up needing to chase another big score to cover the handicap. In a tough match to call, the Fijians with a big start look the best bet.

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