Andy Farrell on Ireland’s Six Nations Success
Andy Farrell believes that missing out on back-to-back Grand Slams will benefit the development of his Ireland squad, following their recent triumph in the Guinness Six Nations.
Lessons Learned from Defeat
Farrell’s team secured the Six Nations title by defeating Scotland 17-13 in Dublin, bouncing back from a heartbreaking loss to England. The defeat at Twickenham, Farrell believes, will prevent complacency as they prepare for upcoming matches against top teams.
Continued Improvement
Reflecting on the campaign, Farrell stated, “It was a fantastic campaign for this group, and we’re continuing to build on our progress and strive for improvement as a team.”
Power of Loss
Farrell emphasized the importance of the recent loss, stating, “I reckon the loss last week will be the best thing for us as a group because some of these lads have been used to winning. It’s a learning experience that will drive us forward.”
Proud of Achievements
Despite the challenges, Farrell expressed immense pride in his players’ accomplishments, highlighting the difficulty of winning championships and the significance of their back-to-back Six Nations victories.
Future Plans
Looking ahead, Farrell may need to appoint a new captain as current skipper Peter O’Mahony considers international retirement. Discussions about O’Mahony’s future are ongoing, with Farrell emphasizing the importance of making the right decision for the player.
Continued Support
Regarding O’Mahony’s potential retirement, Farrell stated, “I’ve been a big fan of Pete throughout his career, and we will have honest discussions about his future. We will assess the situation and make decisions in the best interest of the team.”