OUT-HALF IAN MADIGAN says Ireland won’t be making any excuses after their elimination from the World Cup at the hands of Argentina.
Ireland were left to rue a disastrous opening quarter when they allowed Argentina two tries and a penalty for a 17-point head start.
But after clawing their way back to within three points, Ireland missed the chance to draw level, Madigan missing to the right with a penalty from long-range.
And speaking to TV3 after the match, Madigan said had he made that kick, he’s certain the momentum would have swung in Ireland’s favour.
“Unfortunately, starting with myself, it wasn’t a good enough performance and we let ourselves down on the day.
“Even having gone behind at the start and it was just really disappointing,” he says.
“I had a kick to tie the game up and I’ve no doubt if that goes over there’s a good chance we would have gone on and won the game,” he adds.
Madigan said that the introduction of his Leinster teammate Luke Fitzgerald had a big impact on the game.
Fitzgerald came on with Ireland trailing 14-0 early in the game, scoring a superb try and creating one for Jordi Murphy.
He says Fitzgerald had a huge impact, but that ultimately Ireland couldn’t cope with the expansive Argentinian attack.
“I thought Luke Fitzgerald came on and he was absolutely sensational.
“Look, the Argies, they attacked us very well, they used the short side very well and it’s just disappointing that we fell off a few tackles and weren’t clinical enough in defence.”
Just like his captain had previously, Madigan also took time out to thank the Irish fans for their support throughout the tournament.
“It’s absolutely devastating but all you can do is thank the support, it’s been absolutely incredible over here. I’ve heard stories coming from home that it’s been absolutely incredible and I’m just disappointing we let the supporters down today.”
