Tadhg’s try drives Ireland to success
TADHG FURLONG made another powerful statement over the weekend to underline why he is one of the world’s leading tighthead props.
The former New Ross clubman showcased his talents with an awesome performance in Ireland’s 24-14 victory over Wales in the Guinness Six Nations Championship at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday.
In what was one of the team’s best performances in the last 18 months, Furlong showed his power and skill when crashing over for a try.
Having won a massive scrum five metres from the Welsh line, Furlong showed his pace and strength to pick himself up, showing great pace to take the pass and power his way over the line.
This was Furlong’s fifth international try and one of the most important, as it helped set his side up for a continuous onslaught on the Welsh, gaining a second successive victory in the competition.
And in the process, they have set themselves up for a Triple Crown clash with England in Twickenham on Sunday week.
The likes of Furlong, C.J. Stander (who won the man of the match award for a second successive game), James Ryan and Peter O’Mahony, along with the outstanding Josh Van Der Flier, helped immensely in setting up this victory.
Furlong has blossomed since being brought into the ‘think tank’ group under the captaincy of Johnny Sexton, who has paid huge compliments to the contribution of the Campile man to the team preparations and match-day situations.
Heavily involved in the carries along with boasting a high tackle count, Furlong will now look forward to his next big day in Twickenham.
While the Ireland Under-20s had a bonus point 36-22 victory over Wales, it was an unlucky evening for Brian Deeny.
The Wexford town lad had been prominent right through the opening half but was forced to retire at the interval with a finger injury.
Another great prospect, Deeny showcased his talents with excellent handling for a second row, while his line-out work was also effective before his enforced departure.
The Clontarf clubman has to wait until later in the week to know if he will be fit for the England showdown.
Meanwhile, the ladies’ squad, currently without any Wexford representation, made it a great weekend for Irish rugby with a 31-14 victory over Wales in their Six Nations clash at Donnybrook on Sunday.
On the club front, Enniscorthy will return to AIL action with an away trip to Tullamore on Saturday.
They will have six games after that, with the details as follows: February 22, home to Clonmel; February 29, away to Sunday’s Well; March 14, home to Omagh; March 21, away to Skerries; March 28, home to Bruff; April 18, away to Midleton.