Munster's Ben O'Connor delivers on Simon Easterby's high expectations

Ireland have games against Western Force and Cheetahs still to play on the tour. 

STANDING UP: Ben O'Connor of Ireland in action against Pumas. Photo by Charle Lombard/Sportsfile

Emerging Ireland head coach Simon Easterby was effusive in his praise for Ben O’Connor after the Munster prospect played a significant role in helping his side to overcome Airlink Pumas in the opening game of their South African tour yesterday.

Selected at full-back for their showdown with Pumas at Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein, the Cork native had a number of impressive moments in defence and attack as Ireland registered six tries in an eventual 36-24 victory.