Robinson hails overdue success

by Mark Doyle , 20 March 2010

Scotland boss Andy Robinson was ecstatic after his side pulled off a massive Six Nations upset by beating Ireland 23-20 at Croke Park on Saturday.


With a Triple Crown on the line for the Irish, many thought that a home win was little more than a formality. However, in spite of a bright opening, in which they scored a try through Brian O'Driscoll, Scotland claimed a deserved win thanks to the magnificent goal-kicking of fly-half Dan Parks.

After seeing his side manager nothing more than a draw, against England, in their four previous Championship outings this term, in spite of some very encouraging displays, Robinson was understandably thrilled that his players had finally pulled off a win.

"It feels really, really good. The guys have worked hard all year," he said. "We got a bit of luck at the end of the game, got a penalty near their line and Dan made a great kick, but I think for the endeavour and the way we've tried to play this season, the guys should take some real credit.

"They're hurting, they're tired, and they deserve the plaudits for this win. I'm impressed with the way they have approached this game and approached every game. Like all things we kept the composure right to the end.

"Ireland played really, really well at the start and I thought at one stage it was going to be a 30-pointer. But we held on, we got to the pace of the game, and performed really well."

Meanwhile, Parks, who picked up his third man of the match award after contributing 18 points overall, was equally overjoyed by the long overdue success.

"Obviously it feels fantastic," the Glasgow Warriors ace told BBC1. "I think we've deserved a lot more than we've got in this championship.

"We came here full-blooded and we're absolutely delighted. It's going to be a good night now!"

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