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Published 17:14 12 Mar 2015 GMT
Updated 17:16 13 Mar 2015 GMT
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Roberts is a player capable of delivering a big performance just when it is needed [Lions tour of 2009, versus Ireland in RWC 2011 and versus England in 2013] but has been on the wane. He is averaging 28 metres gained per match, on an average of 10 carries and with zero clean breaks.
Davies, who has three tries in four Tests against Ireland, is averaging seven carries per match, has one clean break, five defenders beaten and one try to his name.
In defence, Roberts has been more solid than the Clermont centre, and former Scarlets captain, but neither have covered themselves in glory.
In Davies' first two games, he made seven tackles but missed five. He rectified that against France [nine successful tackles] and achieved his third turnover of the championship.
Roberts has yet to affect a turnover and has missed four of the 26 tackles he has attempted. Not a bad return but a couple of misses too many.
The result is a try for Grenoble's Ulster centre:
Roberts' tendency to make split decisions and desire to make the big plays [and hits] will surely be an area Joe Schmidt will look at this Saturday.
Expect Murray and Sexton to play a high line - when they are not, according to Warren Gatland, 'kicking the leather off the ball'. This match may be perfectly suited for Jared Payne. The quiet man of the Irish backline, so far, has the vision and handling to put teammates through any holes Roberts and Davies may leave.The SportsJOE Friday Pub Quiz: Week 139
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