Proud Crowley says Ireland on journey, but no guarantees about destination

Push past the glass half-full takes and Ireland’s two recent defeats against the southern hemisphere giants bear a worrying resemblance to the tough days of yesteryear.

Ireland’s Jack Crowley prevents a try from South Africa’s Canan Moodie. Pic: ©INPHO/Gary Carr

So, here’s where Ireland are at now. No longer the top-ranked team in the world. Not even close. No longer a side that routinely betters the acknowledged giants of the world game.

Ireland are now a side that is back absorbing learnings, and lots of them.