The Ireland lock admits he appreciated this year’s Grand Slam more than his first, and says Johnny Sexton’s injury gives even more importance to Saturday’s Leinster-Ulster duel
“I think this week the mindset is just excitement. The Aviva is nearly sold out at this point; 52,000 supporters, with probably about 90 per cent Leinster fans. These are the weeks that you put all the work in for. These are the weeks that you live for in Leinster, so loads of excitement and loads of energy.”
This too from a key cog in Ireland’s Slam, not just for the voluminous work-rate in playing all 400 minutes, but in the quality of his aerial skills, his physicality, tackling and carrying. There were even two tries and an extraordinary 80-metre gallop in the Murrayfield endgame that frustratingly came within one offload of being the Irish try of the championship.
“I understand now how hard it is to get to that point and how much effort it takes to get you there. I don’t think I’d the same understanding or appreciation as a 21-year-old,” he admits. The ensuing 11 meetings pale by comparison as a yardstick of what to expect from Ulster, but he anticipates Saturday’s contest to be as momentous as the 2018 clash.
Leinster tradition decrees that the most fitting way of honouring retiring players is for them to be presented with trophies whilst suited. Ryan knows no one deserves that more than Sexton.
Ireland Latest News, Ireland Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
‘Odds are stacked against him’: Leinster coach fears injured Sexton to miss rest of season‘Odds are stacked against him’: Leinster coach fears injured Sexton to miss rest of season via IrishTimesSport
Read more »
Asking prices for homes in Ireland fall for first time since 2013Latest Daft.ie housing report indicates that prices fell marginally in first three months of 2023
Read more »
Virgin Media to broadcast their first ever League of Ireland gameDublin derby between Bohemians and Shamrock Rovers from Dalymount Park will be shown on Friday, April 7th
Read more »
Who is the typical renter in Ireland?The challenge of finding a rental property – particularly an affordable one – is a big issue amid concerns in many households over the imminent ending of the eviction ban. But who is the typical renter in Ireland?
Read more »
Ireland's wettest county revealed - with one part of country worst affectedThe study has shown the top five wettest and the top five driest counties so far this year
Read more »
Miss Ireland turns tour guide as she shows fellow beauty queens around countryAll four - who have become friends - will soon compete for the title of Miss World, which will be held in May in the United Arab Emirates.
Read more »