Ireland want to finish in way they wished they’d started

Such has been Ireland’s rise in prominence on the world rugby stage these past six years under Joe Schmidt that their days as party poopers are long gone. The one-off big performance to spoil a rival’s ambitions have given way to a higher standard and more positive motivations.

Ireland want to finish in way they wished they’d started

Such has been Ireland’s rise in prominence on the world rugby stage these past six years under Joe Schmidt that their days as party poopers are long gone. The one-off big performance to spoil a rival’s ambitions have given way to a higher standard and more positive motivations.

Which is why, in the Ireland camp, today’s Guinness Six Nations endgame in Cardiff will have nothing to do with stopping Wales in their quest to send head coach Warren Gatland off from the championship with the third Grand Slam of his 11-year tenure; any more than this is about closing the tournament’s chapters on the careers of both Schmidt and team captain Rory Best.

Already a subscriber? Sign in

You have reached your article limit.

Unlimited access. Half the price.

Annual €120 €60

Best value

Monthly €10€5 / month

More in this section

Sport

Newsletter

Latest news from the world of sport, along with the best in opinion from our outstanding team of sports writers. and reporters

Cookie Policy Privacy Policy Brand Safety FAQ Help Contact Us Terms and Conditions

© Examiner Echo Group Limited