Not the perfect result, but Rules Series a winner
Most observers predicted doom and gloom for Ireland after the first test in Limerick, but I felt that there was enough skill and determination within the squad to seriously trouble the Australians. Unfortunately, Ireland waited until well into the second-half before they clicked into gear. But they did so in emphatic style and with a little more composure and a stronger bench they could well have won the game and the series.
Nevertheless, two major positives emerged from the evening. Firstly, the International Series does have a future and, if played in the right spirit by the best players in both countries, can be truly entertaining and hugely competitive. Violence marred the series too often in the past. This was often, I believe, directly related to the attitude of the Australian manager. This year, Mick Malthouse took a different approach to some of his predecessors; the teams he sent out were more interested in the ball than the man.
Australia won because they were the better team and over the two tests didn’t commit one nasty foul. With Anthony Tohill’s men having the same approach, we got football all the way. That was a very important outcome as any violence at all would have the sceptics calling for the termination of the series.
Secondly, Ireland’s late comeback in both games especially on Saturday last, showed the game, as developed, has an equilibrium that’s sustainable. Forget all this talk that amateurs can’t compete against professionals. Granted, a professional has many advantage when it comes to preparation. But amateurs can and do make up the difference and it’s generally accepted that the fitness levels and preparation of county players nowadays is professional in all but remuneration. After all even a professional can’t keep training all day.
Did Ireland run out of steam last Saturday night when victory was within reach? Well, if that’s the case how come Ireland finished far stronger than Australia in Limerick? I believe it wasn’t fitness, nor lack of commitment that made the difference in the end. All Ireland lacked was a few more quality players to call on, and for that reason every effort must be made to ensure that the strongest possible squad goes to Australia next year. No talk of boycotts or lack of interest or anything else. Send out the best team and Ireland will bring home the bacon.
The attendance of 61,000 was very satisfactory. Because so many young people were present much emphasis was put on entertainment. Frankly, I thought it was overdone and somewhat loud and intrusive, but perhaps others thought differently.
I was pleased though to see so many mascots brought onto the field – soccer and rugby-style before the game. For too long we have banned or restricted mascots in Gaelic games. Isn’t it a great thrill for a young boy or girl to walk onto a famous ground holding the hand of a sporting star? I saw this many moons ago when I attended my first Premiership game in England. It’s about time we gave our young boys and girls a similar opportunity.
