Learning from French lessons

SUCCESS breeds success. Last season Ireland finally delivered an overdue Grand Slam, the foundation of which can be traced back to the prosperity of the provinces in Europe.

Wed, 05 May, 2010 - 01:00

Donal Lenihan

A rugby player, coach and manager during a glittering career with Munster, Ireland and the Lions and now a definitive voice in Irish rugby analysis and commentary.

This year the reverse has happened with French domination of the Six Nations championship, coupled with a carrot of a Parisian Heineken Cup final, the basis for a remarkable turnaround in the fortunes of club rugby in the country.

Those racing to predict the demise of the Irish challenge for Heineken Cup honours would do well to pause and remember that 12 months ago no French side made it to the semis amid claims they were losing interest in the tournament. Nothing could be further from the truth. The other significant factor is the luck of the draw. A home semi-final given that it can now be played in your home city (or close by in the case of Biarritz on Sunday) is a huge advantage.