Advertisement
future is green

5 players who stood out in Ireland's narrow win over Italy

There were several strong individual performances, even if collectively there is a lot of work to do for Noel McNamara’s side.

IRELAND WERE MADE to sweat by 14-man Italy at Donnybrook on Friday evening but Noel McNamara’s side hung on at the death to record a bonus-point victory which breathes life into their Six Nations campaign.

Below, we take a look at five players who stood out for the home side in the 38-34 win.

Sean Masterson

Sean Masterson tackles Alessandro Fusco Laszlo Geczo / INPHO Laszlo Geczo / INPHO / INPHO

The sponsor’s man of the match award went to two-try winger James McCarthy, but Connacht’s Sean Masterson would have been equally deserving of the honour.

Now in his second year at this age-grade, the flanker continues to impress and worked tirelessly on Friday night as well as providing a real threat with ball in hand, his power and dynamism evident throughout.

Masterson was excellent over the ball and was one of several players to produce standout individual performances, but the collective cohesion remains a concern with Ireland’s defence exposed regularly by Italy.

Michael Silvester

Michael Silvester and Tommaso Coppo Ryan Byrne / INPHO Ryan Byrne / INPHO / INPHO

Trinity fullback Michael Silvester looks a real prospect with his electric footwork, impressive acceleration and strong running game all on show in the first half in particular.

A former Clongowes Wood pupil and current member of the Leinster sub-academy, Silvester was a livewire throughout and demonstrated his ability to beat defenders at will, although he was helped by the space which opened up following Jacopo Bianchi’s red card.

One of the highlights was his surge down the left in the second half which led to Tommy O’Brien going over, only for the TMO to pull it back after Silvester’s boot had caressed the touchline.

Tommy O’Brien

Tommy O'Brien with mascot Richard Cole Ryan Byrne / INPHO Ryan Byrne / INPHO / INPHO

Was denied what would have been a match-clinching try late on, but overall the captain made a significant contribution in midfield and displayed glimpses of real quality.

Ireland’s ambition wasn’t always matched with the execution, but when they did produce some clinical rugby in the first half, O’Brien was at the centre of it with his clever tip-on offload on halfway creating the space for McCarthy to burst into in the build-up to Ireland’s third try.

Eoghan Clarke

Promoted to the starting XV following the late withdrawal of Ronan Kelleher through illness, Clarke seized his opportunity and was heavily involved around the fringes, while also getting through a mountain of work during his time on the field.

Head coach Noel McNamara singled the former CBC Monsktown man out for praise afterwards, and it was fully merited with his all-round contribution giving the management team a selection headache going forward.

James McCarthy

James McCarthy scores his side's fourth try Ryan Byrne / INPHO Ryan Byrne / INPHO / INPHO

The Munster academy winger followed up his Six Nations debut try last week with two first-half scores against Italy, the second of which was an eye-catching chip, chase and finish in the far corner.

McCarthy showed good speed and then athleticism to make up the ground to take advantage of the fortunate bounce before leaping over the Italian fullback to gather and dive over.

The 42 is on Instagram! Tap the button below on your phone to follow us!

Bennett strikes late to halt Leinster’s winning streak

Gilroy hat-trick crowns Ulster demolition job on Kings to begin Gibbes reign

Your Voice
Readers Comments
9
This is YOUR comments community. Stay civil, stay constructive, stay on topic. Please familiarise yourself with our comments policy here before taking part.
Leave a Comment
    Submit a report
    Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
    Thank you for the feedback
    Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.

    Leave a commentcancel