Columns - Irish Examiner

Donal Lenihan

Ireland v Australia - Autumn International - Aviva Stadium

Six important points ahead of a Six Nations to savour

With three wins, including a first over New Zealand, November has been a hugely encouraging month for Joe Schmidt and Irish rugby in general. So what were the major discussion points?

Wed, 30 Nov, 2016

Another big step on Ireland's road to greatness?

After this momentous win, who knows what this Irish squad is capable of achieving.

Mon, 28 Nov, 2016

Three talking points ahead of Ireland's game with Australia

David Pocock is a force of nature and Ireland will need to keep the ball off the deck as much as possible to negate his influence, writes Donal Lenihan.

Sat, 26 Nov, 2016

Jaco Peyper shows Malakai Fekitoa a yellow card 19/11/2016

Referee inaction leaves rugby at a crossroads

Referee Jaco Peyper is a full- time, paid official, and must be accountable for his performance, writes Donal Lenihan.

Wed, 23 Nov, 2016

Ireland v New Zealand - Autumn International

Yes, there is honour in defeat

Now that was a test match. Saturday’s game in Lansdowne Road had everything — mesmerising skills, unrelenting physicality, and unwavering commitment.

Mon, 21 Nov, 2016

Ireland v New Zealand - International match

Are Ireland ready to raise the bar again?

With Sam Whitelock, and especially Brodie Retallick back in black, the challenge facing Joe Schmidt and Ireland has to be tougher than when they made history in Chicago, writes Donal Lenihan.

Sat, 19 Nov, 2016

Robbie Henshaw celebrates scoring their fifth try with teammates 5/11/2016

Belief earns its reward as Ireland no longer fear All Black bogeyman

Both Munster and Ireland will have confidence soaring after success against All Black sides, writes Donal Lenihan. 

Wed, 16 Nov, 2016

Win over Canada offers significant signposts to the future

The contrast in advance of this test against Canada to the series opener against New Zealand last week could not have been more stark.

Mon, 14 Nov, 2016

Evolving Ireland team are going places again under wily Joe Schmidt

A special win, on a magical day, in a brilliant city. For those of us privileged to be in Chicago last weekend, it proved the ultimate in sporting experiences. It had everything.

Wed, 09 Nov, 2016

Ireland beating New Zealand is the stuff of dreams

IF THAT heartbreaking 22-24 defeat at the death against New Zealand in Dublin three years ago and the lessons learnt from the fallout was credited as the catalyst for back-to-back Six Nations championship titles in 2014 and 2015, one wonders what the long-term legacy of this unique experience in Chicago will be.

Mon, 07 Nov, 2016