PETER’S BEST O’ THE BEST
PETER O’MAHONY hailed the best Ireland team he has ever played in ahead of today’s pivotal Six nations showdown with England.
Andy Farrell’s men will run out at Twickenham as overwhelming favourites and have the chance to retain the championship title with a round to spare.
Captain O’Mahony has lined up alongside the likes of Brian O’Driscoll, Paul O’Connell and Johnny Sexton during his long Test career. But he feels the class of 2024 is arguably the greatest Irish side of that period.
“Look, I’ve been lucky to play with lots of good players and teams,” said the Munster flanker, who will win his 104th cap in south-west London.
“If I had to nail the colours to the mast I’d have to say yes. It’s hard to compare because rugby has moved on and the game is different but, in a short answer, I think it is.
“I think the quality of player, it’s a really, really healthy, good, thoughtprovoking, enjoyable environment. But obviously the quality of performance and results speaks for itself.
“Hard to compare but yeah, it’s certainly up there anyway.”
Ireland have triumphed in each of the past four meetings with England and will set a championship record of 12 consecutive wins by extending that run this evening.
But England captain Jamie George warned the history chasers they are ready to “defend our home”.
He said: “We believe that we’re going to win. We don’t want any opposition to come to Twickenham and have an easy ride.
“They’ve got brilliant players across the board. But this is England. This is Twickenham. This is home.
“And we’re going to defend our home, like every Englishman would. Ireland have got to come and get the result here.”