Earls has that winning feeling

KEITH EARLS has sensed that Ireland are in the process of building something special at the World Cup that will culminate in reaching the final.

Unbeaten Ireland have enjoyed a near-perfect tournament, topping Pool C while playing some magnificent rugby in front of a colourful and noisy 25,000-strong army of supporters who have followed them across New Zealand.

Adding to the mood that 2011 could be Ireland’s year is the fact several decorated senior players, among them Brian O’Driscoll, Paul O’Connell and Ronan O’Gara, are playing at their last World Cup.