Easterby given nod over Best

A LITTLE bit of local knowledge can go a long way and that was enough for Eddie O’Sullivan to give Simon Easterby the nod over a very unfortunate Neil Best at blind-side flanker yesterday.

Though the Llanelli forward started Ireland’s last game against the Pacific Islanders in November, he had previously played second fiddle to Best in the key ties against South Africa and Australia.

Against the Wallabies in particular, the Ulsterman was a revelation but a combination of form, lineout ability and Easterby’s familiarity with Sunday’s foe was enough to edge him into the number six jersey in Cardiff.