FITTING END IF PETE NOW CALLS QUITS

BY MICHAEL SCULLY

IT TOOK 15 years for Peter O’mahony to become a serial winner as a pro.

“That’s a s*** stat to own,” joked Andy Farrell, sitting with his captain as they were finishing up at Aviva Stadium on Saturday night.

O’mahony (above) is going to take time out now to decide whether to carry on at Test level. If he doesn’t, he is expected to give at least one more year to the Munster cause.

But, whatever happens, the 34-year-old will have a number of major milestones in the late autumn of his career to look back on with massive satisfaction.

Firstly, he fought his way back into Farrell’s Ireland team when it looked like his days as an international were numbered.

Secondly, he led Munster to the URC crown last season – their first silverware in 12 years and his first as a player with the province.

Thirdly, he was appointed as Ireland captain for this year’s Six Nations – trusted by Farrell to fill the void caused by Johnny Sexton (inset).

And, lastly, he lifted the championship trophy with Tadhg Furlong on Saturday night – his fifth title as an Ireland player.

As he put it himself, if this is the end of the road with Ireland then what a way to bow out.

“It’s certainly hard to beat,” smiled the Corkman. “There are days like today you wouldn’t dare dream of, lifting a trophy. I’ve been through enough losses you know.”

Before heading off for a night of celebrations, O’mahony was asked how much of this is for the players who have gone before.

“You always represent the past players,” he said. “They’re a huge part, even Johnny popping into the hotel last week, it’s something that we should probably make a bit more regular.

“They’ve been there for a long, long time and Johnny and Keith Earls have been a huge part of where we are now.

“Of course every time you pull it on it’s for lots of those people as well and you’d like to think they’re proud sitting at home today as well, the people who can’t take the field any more.”