Trimble: we’ll let rugby do the talking

LIKE many torn reputations that emerged from the car-wreck of the Rugby World Cup, Andrew Trimble’s was one in need of some repair.

Maligned for his defensive performance against France in Paris when a concentration lapse allowed Vincent Clerc score the crucial first try, Trimble’s journey to exorcise his own RWC demons was a tougher route than for those returning to Munster or Leinster.

A rot was setting in at Ulster, Mark McCall’s resignation in November after a lacklustre performance against Gloucester in the Heineken Cup effectively ended their hopes of qualification after one game. It was prelude to more forgettable results, including a 26-0 defeat to Leinster in the Magners League. But news of Matt Williams’ arrival in January seemed to shed some optimism that saw an upturn in performances, especially for Trimble.