THE KEY INCIDENTS that propelled Ireland to back-to-back Six Nations championships for the first time since 1949 have been discussed and watched countless times so we decided to give a mention to a couple of smaller moments that proved crucial nonetheless.
Ian Keatley’s performance in Rome
Source: Dan Sheridan/INPHO
As everyone keeps reminding us, Johnny Sexton is the glue that holds the Irish game plan together. Italy is probably one of the few teams who could be brushed aside without Sexton but Joe Schmidt still needed somebody to step up in his place.
Keatley over Madigan was a big call but the Munster out-half justified his coach’s faith by seamlessly slotting into the side. He wasn’t spectacular but he helped Ireland increase their points difference, which proved key at the end.
Source: RBS 6 Nations/YouTube
Mike Ross’ rejuvenation
Source: Billy Stickland/INPHO
Before the Six Nations Mike Ross had been dropped out of the Leinster 23 for their two big Champions Cup pool games but he was a steady presence for most of the tournament. His display against Joe Marler was particularly noteworthy as the Quins loosehead had gotten the better of the veteran tighthead during the Champions Cup back-to-backs in December.
There was a real fear pre-match that the England scrum would be a key weapon for the visitors but the Irish front row neutralised the threat. One mammoth heave by Ross that day even yielded a penalty, and it was a nice reward for a solid tournament.