Hickie: ‘Nobody is more frustrated than us’

WITH criticism of Ireland’s rugby performances coming thick and fast, Denis Hickie says there’s “nobody more frustrated than us” as one of the pre-tournament favourites face a meltdown.

Hickie fully accepts that expectation levels of the ‘Golden Generation’ are high — but the winger is at pains to pinpoint the reason why a once confident team has lost its sheen.

“I can’t give one answer why we’re not clicking,” said a downbeat Hickie.

“But there are a few things: we weren’t as precise with the ball as we needed to be. A few times we had them under the cosh but pushed a pass or two. We’re trying to develop our game, and I thought we were better this week than last week. But it is not where we want to be.”

And failing to match expectations?

“We’ve brought those expectations upon ourselves. No matter what anyone says before the match, people are expecting us to put up a big score — if we say anything else we’re being accused of putting a spin on it. Nobody is more frustrated than us. We want to win the competition. We want to come out of this group. We’re the ones under pressure. We have to accept any criticism.”

O’Sullivan will again come under pressure to make wholesale changes for the France game — which is unlikely — or at least freshen up a few areas by adding new faces. Hickie says he is not taking his position for the France game for granted.

“From my point of view I’m always looking over my shoulder. Nobody takes their place for granted. It’s a very competitive squad and the closer the game the closer the calls will be. Everyone will write us off but we know what we have to do and we have a week to do it.”