O’Gara survives hurricane to open up the Italians

ONE COULD almost forgive Ireland for their urge to move on from Saturday’s Six Nations win against Italy.

Chief among them was key man and out-half Ronan O’Gara. Having pledged himself to Ireland and Munster for the next three years, he had looked forward with more than usual relish, yet the hurricane that swept all over Lansdowne Road spoiled the occasion for himself and his teammates who were left to dig out the result.

“I don’t think I’ve ever played in anything quite so bad,” O’Gara confessed. “It wasn’t enjoyable, for passing, kicking, running, anything.