Tommy Bowe claims Ireland’s ‘golden generation’ are determined to make the upcoming World Cup (28/1 Tournament Outright) in New Zealand “a special one” after disappointing in previous tournaments.

Ireland have never progressed beyond the quarter-finals and have failed to reach the last-eight stage on two occasions, in 1999 and 2007.

Therefore, as they prepare to do battle in Pool C with Australia, Italy, the USA and Russia, Bowe is confident they can progress (7/2 Pool C Winners), while a strong performance against likely quarter-final opponents, the Wallabies or South Africa, could see them make the last-four (3/1 Ireland Semi-Final – Stage of Elimination).

“People have looked at us as bit of a golden generation. We’ve won a Grand Slam and countless Triple Crowns (four in six years),” he said.

“But within a successful Irish team, the World Cup is the one we really want to make an impact in.

“Ireland have had disappointing World Cups in the past. The players are extremely motivated about making this a special one.”

Ireland have lost their four international games going into the World Cup, but Bowe insists that run of form will soon be forgotten with an opening win against USA on Sunday (Ireland -35 10/11, USA +35 10/11, Tie -35 16/1 Match Handicap 80 Mins).

He added: “We want to go out there, put things right and move onto bigger and better things.”