Sexton in awe of Irish support

Jonny Sexton has praised the Irish supporters for the “positive effect” they have provided in tough games for Declan Kindey’s team so far in the World Cup.

The Leinster outhalf continues his battle with Ronan O’Gara for the starting number 10 jersey ahead of next weekend’s crucial quarter-final encounter against Wales.

Sexton lost his starting spot to O’Gara for the Italian game having seen his goal kicking success rate fall below 40% for the tournament but he showed his resolve by slotting two kicks when he came off the bench.

Having soaked up the atmosphere from the sidelines for 67 minutes, Sexton admitted in his O2 World Cup blog that it was a special feeling to have such support in Dunedin.

“I have never seen an atmosphere like the one we experienced for Sunday’s final pool match against Italy. Over 90% of the crowd must have been Irish.

“The only thing I can equate it to is the halcyon days of the soccer team and an occasion like Italia ’90. That was intensity, passion and noise levels coming from the supporters.

“The team find it an uplifting experience and as I have said before, it has an incredibly positive effect on players when you’re blowing a bit. We are deeply appreciative of the sacrifices that people have made to come and support us.”

Prior to the tournament Ireland were favourites to finish runners-up in Pool C behind Australia although a poor run of form had raised questions about their ability to see off a physical Italy side.

Having upset the odds against by beating the Wallabies Ireland built further momentum with a 36-3 win over Italy and Sexton admits the mood was good in the camp after topping the Pool.

“I was engaged on a Skype call but I believe that the sing song in the team room with family and friends was a great occasion.

“The lads bought Damien Varley a guitar and it’s been well worth the expense as he’s brilliant and has quickly become the go-to guy when music is required.”

The demons of 2007 may have been exercised through qualifying top of the Pool but with all southern hemisphere outfits on the opposite side of the draw Ireland won’t settle for a place in the quarter-finals.

With Rory Best emerging as the only injury concern after Sunday’s victory Sexton admits the squad are eager to get back to training and prepare for a massive game against Wales.

“We had a down day when we reached Wellington and everyone wants to get back on the training pitch and prepare as diligently for next weekend’s quarter-final against Wales as we have for the other matches. It’s an exciting time.”