Furlong to the fore as Ireland dish out record defeat to SA

TADHG FURLONG is turning into one of the world’s best props.

That’s the general consensus after Ireland handed out a record 38-3 defeat to South Africa in the opening November international at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday.

Following upon a successful Lions tour, Furlong had a slow start to the new season.

However, in this game he showed a return to the explosive form that lit up his career last term, starting with that famous first-ever victory over New Zealand in Chicago.

The Irish front row had a good day with the returning Cian Healy dominant, while Rory Best was an inspiring captain, and Furlong demolished his opposite number in the opening scrum to set the tone for the remainder of the game.

Furlong’s discipline in the front row was evident despite facing a tough opponent, as he repeated his previous displays against the South Africans on winning his 17th cap.

While the margin of victory must have surprised even the Irish, it was the control exercised by the half-back pairing of Conor Murray and man of the match Jonny Sexton that had the opposition on the back foot throughout.

It was a real bullish showing from Furlong who also excelled in the loose with a bruising performance as ball carrier, while he got in more than ten tackles during his period on the pitch.

It was sterling work from a stand-out star as he continues to deliver on the promise shown last year and during the Lions tour.

Next up is Fiji next Saturday with Argentina seven days later.