The hidden hero of the Irish Rugby team

AS the Irish rugby team runs down the tunnel at Twickenham tomorrow afternoon, to take on England in the Six Nations Championship, their bagman, Patrick O’Reilly, will be standing in the wings, holding his breath and praying for a famous victory.

“I am always optimistic. I will be full of excitement; the anticipation is great, you get caught up in the whole match situation. You wouldn’t be human if you didn’t,” he says.

“In my book the supporters are the most important out of everyone. You always hear the Irish, it doesn’t matter where in the world you are, they are absolutely outstanding, they cheer so much for the team. But you feel the losses too. I was absolutely gutted over New Zealand. I did have a little cry by myself.”