O'Leary revels in triumph

by Michelle Fortune , 14 March 2010

Tomas O'Leary is wary of the threat Scotland pose as Ireland prepare to conclude the RBS Six Nations with a victory and their fifth Triple Crown in seven years.


Ireland have an outside chance of clinching the championship but must rely on England gaining an unlikely victory over France in Paris. The Triple Crown, however, is within Ireland's grasp if they manage to beat Scotland in their last game at Croke Park before the move to the Aviva Stadium.

O'Leary, man of the match against Wales on Saturday, insists the Triple Crown is still a big prize for Declan Kidney's men to win but he is wary of facing Scotland.

"It's our last match at Croke Park. If we beat Scotland to win the Triple Crown, on top of winning the Grand Slam last year it would be great and a big honour for me," O'Leary said.

"Our defeat to France was disappointing and that result means it would be hard to win the championship, but the Triple Crown is still there.

"We always want to finish with some silverware but Scotland will be a massive test for us."

O'Leary produced one of his best performances in an Irish shirt against Wales and the Munster player relished the opportunity to help the Grand Slam champions record a 27-12 win.

"It's nice to pick up man of the match. I enjoyed the game and love getting my hands on the ball. Thankfully things went well for me," he added.

"In the second half we were under serious pressure in terms of defending but we stood up. It was a very good first-half performance.

"In the second half we didn't play as much rugby and kicked a bit aimlessly to put ourselves under pressure. It was pleasing to prevent Wales from scoring when you see the firepower they have out wide."

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