Crowning glory is more than consolation

IT is hugely disappointing to hear people belittle Ireland’s potential to win the Triple Crown for the fifth time in seven years at Croke Park on Saturday.

One could easily interpret the blasé approach of so many – including a number who have the best interests of Irish rugby at heart – as a reflection of how far the game has progressed in this country in recent times.

Last year’s Grand Slam obviously is a huge factor in such an attitude but now is not the time for resting on our laurels. 2011 is a World Cup year and while we are by no means among the favourites or deserve to be, it is still not an unattainable prize.