Columns - Irish Examiner

Donal Lenihan

The world is All Black after New Zealand win Rugby World Cup

Forty five minutes after the final whistle, Richie McCaw led the Haka, perhaps for the last time.

Mon, 02 Nov, 2015

A final to be decided by defensive excellence

1. Australia will always back themselves to beat New Zealand.

Sat, 31 Oct, 2015

Winning mindset key to All Black magic

You get a good insight into the New Zealand psyche just listening to their supporters. They’re not exactly a shy or bashful lot when it comes to talking rugby.

Wed, 28 Oct, 2015

Cheika’s wily Wallabies will be All Blacks’ toughest test

Two contrasting semi-finals, both equally captivating in their own way. The debate about how Ireland should play the game will rumble on long after this tournament is over but as the weekend’s absorbing action proved, you have to play to your strengths.

Mon, 26 Oct, 2015

Could Mario Ledesma destroy his native country’s dreams?

When New Zealand and South Africa clash, all bets are off.

Sat, 24 Oct, 2015

Does Ian Madigan need a change of province to reach the next level?

IF you are still feeling sick after Ireland’s massively disappointing exit from the World Cup, put yourself in the shoes of the long-suffering Scottish players and supporters for a brief second.

Wed, 21 Oct, 2015

A period of reflection is now required

“Four more years ......” Those immortal words whispered into New Zealand scrum-half Justin Marshall’s ear by his Wallaby counterpart George Gregan when Australia beat the All Blacks in the 2003 Rugby World Cup semi-final came flooding into my mind at the final whistle in Cardiff yesterday.

Mon, 19 Oct, 2015

If you thought last week was tough...

Donal Lenihan looks at the three key challenges Ireland must overcome in order to beat the Pumas in the Rugby World Cup quarter final...

Sat, 17 Oct, 2015

Irish have capacity to triumph in adversity

Before looking forward to a quartet of mouthwatering World Cup knockout clashes next weekend, I have to indulge myself again on Ireland’s character- filled pool win over France last Sunday.

Wed, 14 Oct, 2015

Enjoy this — there’s a Puma pummelling coming next

After months of speculation and endless debate, now we know. 

Mon, 12 Oct, 2015